scattergun
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A type of shotgun: A scattergun is a firearm, typically a double-barreled smoothbore shoulder weapon, designed to fire a large number of small pellets (shot) that spread out over a short range. This makes it effective for hitting moving targets, such as in hunting birds or for close-range defense.
Usage
The term "scattergun" is an informal synonym for "shotgun," emphasizing its characteristic of firing a scattered pattern of shot. It is often used in casual, historical, or descriptive contexts. - The farmer kept an old scattergun by the door for dealing with pests. - His approach to solving problems was like using a scattergun—ineffective and unfocused.
Advanced Usage
- Metaphorical Use: "Scattergun" can describe an approach, strategy, or method that is broad, indiscriminate, and lacks precision.
- The company's scattergun marketing campaign failed to reach its core audience.
Variants and Related Words
- Shotgun (n): The standard, more common term for this type of firearm.
- Fowling piece (n): An older term for a light shotgun used for hunting birds (fowl).
Synonyms
- Shotgun
- Fowling piece (archaic)
Antonyms
- Rifle (a firearm with a rifled barrel designed for firing a single, precise projectile over long ranges)
Noun
- firearm that is a double-barreled smoothbore shoulder weapon for firing shot at short ranges