rifle
word
Definition
A rifle is a long gun designed to be fired from the shoulder, usually with a long barrel and high accuracy. It is commonly used in hunting, sport shooting, and military contexts.
Usage & Nuances
In everyday English, 'rifle' is more specific than 'gun' and usually refers to a shoulder-fired long gun. Do not confuse it with 'shotgun'; a rifle typically fires single bullets and is associated with greater precision. Because it is a weapon word, it often appears in military, hunting, legal, or news contexts.
Example Sentences
Police said they found a rifle in the back of the truck.
natural
The hunter carried a rifle into the forest.
basic
The soldier cleaned his rifle after training.
basic
That rifle is kept in a locked case.
basic
At the range, she handled the rifle with surprising confidence.
natural
The museum display included an old hunting rifle from the 1800s.
natural