What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
gun
Example
The police officer drew his gun to defend himself. [gun: noun]
Example
She learned how to shoot a gun at the shooting range. [gun: verb]
shooter
Example
The shooter aimed carefully before pulling the trigger. [shooter: noun]
Example
He's a skilled shooter in the video game. [shooter: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Gun is more common than shooter in everyday language, as it is a versatile word that covers different types of firearms and can be used in various contexts. Shooter is less common and more specific to a person who shoots.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between gun and shooter?
Gun is typically used in more formal contexts, such as legal or military settings, while shooter is more informal and can be used in casual conversations or entertainment contexts.