What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
shotshell
Example
He loaded his shotgun with a shotshell before heading out to hunt. [shotshell: noun]
Example
The shotshell was effective in hitting the clay pigeon during the competition. [shotshell: adjective]
ammo
Example
He always carries extra ammo when he goes to the shooting range. [ammo: noun]
Example
She spent the afternoon cleaning her gun and organizing her ammo. [ammo: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Ammo is more commonly used than shotshell in everyday language. Ammo is a general term that covers a wide range of contexts and can be used in various situations, while shotshell is a more specific term that is mostly used in hunting and sport shooting contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between shotshell and ammo?
Both shotshell and ammo are neutral terms that can be used in formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation and audience.