What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
tirailleur
Example
The tirailleurs were skilled at using cover and concealment to harass the enemy. [tirailleur: noun]
Example
He was a talented tirailleur, able to hit targets from long range with his rifle. [tirailleur: adjective]
rifleman
Example
The rifleman took careful aim and fired a shot at the enemy position. [rifleman: noun]
Example
She was a skilled rifleman, able to hit targets from hundreds of yards away. [rifleman: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Rifleman is more commonly used in English than tirailleur, and is a more versatile term that can be used in a wider range of contexts.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between tirailleur and rifleman?
Tirailleur is a more formal and specialized term that is typically used in military or historical contexts, while rifleman is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.