firefight
word
Definition
A direct exchange of gunfire between opposing armed groups, usually in a military or police context.
Usage & Nuances
Used for real combat situations, not for fighting fires (do not confuse with 'firefighting'). Mostly formal or journalistic, found in news reports about combat or police actions.
Spanish: enfrentamiento armadoPortuguese (BR): tiroteioPortuguese (PT): tiroteioChinese (Simplified): 交火Chinese (Traditional): 交火Hindi: मुठभेड़ (गोलीबारी)Arabic: اشتباك مسلح
Example Sentences
The soldiers were caught in a firefight last night.
basic
There was a firefight between the police and the gang.
basic
The news reported a deadly firefight in the city.
basic
After a short firefight, the attackers fled the area.
natural
The platoon found itself in an intense firefight with enemy forces.
natural
We heard about the firefight on the radio, but no details were given.
natural