gun

Everyday

1. A gun is a weapon that fires bullets or other objects through a metal tube using explosive force. tree →
2. A gun is a tool that shoots something out, like a water gun, glue gun or starting gun. tree →
3. To gun an engine (informal) is to make it go very fast. tree →
4. To be gunning for someone (informal) is to be trying to harm or criticise them. tree →

In the lessons

In safety lessons, the rule is: if you ever find a real gun, STOP, DON'T TOUCH, LEAVE the area and TELL a grown-up; never assume it is a toy or unloaded. Toy guns should look clearly like toys. In sport, a starting gun begins a race. In history, guns changed how wars were fought. Phrases: «water gun», «glue gun», «starting gun», «jump the gun» (start too soon), «stick to your guns» (not change your mind).

Examples

• If you find a gun, don't touch it; tell an adult right away. tree →
• We had a water gun fight in the garden. tree →
• The race began with the starting gun. tree →
• Use the glue gun only with a teacher's help. tree →
• Don't jump the gun; wait until everyone is ready. tree →
• She stuck to her guns and kept telling the truth. tree →
• Police in the UK usually don't carry guns. tree →
• The pirate ship fired its guns. tree →
• Niels took his gun with him. tree →

Note

Plural guns. Laws on guns are very different between countries: in the UK, Ireland, Australia and New Zealand few people have them, while in the USA more homes do. A safety rule for children everywhere: never touch a gun, even if a friend says it's fine.