it fires

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it fires" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in contexts related to something being activated, ignited, or initiated, often in reference to machinery, weapons, or metaphorical expressions. Example: "When the trigger is pulled, it fires a projectile at high speed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Ali was unfamiliar with a rifle's roar, or the way its muzzle, when as it fires, wants to rise.

The New York Times

When a neuron's charge exceeds a certain threshold, it fires, releasing chemicals into its synapses.

Columbia University

It fires them up.

The New York Times

It fires me up.

The New York Times - Sports

It fires you up".

The Guardian - Film

It fires up crowds and defines values.

The New York Times

Press and it fires again.

The New Yorker

It fires me up to follow".

The Guardian - Sport

"Don't get emotional, it fires the gun".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Each time we see him brag, it fires our grit.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It fires me up, otherwise I'm very prone to prevaricate.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a mechanical process or action, use "it fires" to vividly convey the rapid release or discharge of energy or a projectile. This is especially effective in technical or descriptive writing.

Common error

Avoid using "it fires" in overly abstract or metaphorical contexts where a more appropriate verb like "ignites", "triggers", or "sparks" would better capture the intended meaning. Overusing the phrase can lead to clunky or confusing prose.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it fires" typically functions as a verb phrase, with "it" acting as the subject and "fires" as the verb. Ludwig shows numerous examples where this phrase describes the action of something being discharged, activated, or launched. Ludwig AI confirms this is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

71%

Academia

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it fires" is a versatile and frequently used verb phrase that effectively describes the action of something being discharged, launched, or activated. As highlighted by Ludwig, this phrase is grammatically correct and applicable across a wide range of contexts, from technical descriptions to news reports. While its register is generally neutral, it's important to avoid misusing it in overly abstract contexts where alternative verbs might be more appropriate. Overall, understanding the nuances of "it fires" enhances clarity and precision in writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it activates

Replaces "fires" with a more general term for starting or initiating an action.

it triggers

Suggests a cause-and-effect relationship, where something sets off another action.

it launches

Implies a forceful beginning or sending forth, often used for objects or initiatives.

it ignites

Suggests setting something on fire or arousing strong emotion.

it discharges

Implies releasing something, like electricity or a weapon firing.

it propels

Focuses on the action of moving something forward with force.

it sets off

Similar to "triggers", indicating the start of a process or event.

it erupts

Suggests a sudden and forceful release, like a volcano or strong emotion.

it commences

A more formal way of saying something begins or starts.

it initiates

Similar to "activates" but can imply a more complex or formal beginning.

FAQs

How can I use "it fires" in a sentence?

The phrase "it fires" is used to describe the action of something discharging or launching, like a weapon or an engine. For example: "When the trigger is pulled, "it fires" a bullet".

What are some alternatives to "it fires"?

Depending on the context, you can replace "it fires" with alternatives like "it activates", "it triggers", or "it launches". Each conveys a slightly different nuance of initiation or propulsion.

Is "it fires" formal or informal?

The phrase "it fires" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in technical descriptions or news reports.

How does the meaning of "it fires" change in different contexts?

The meaning of "it fires" can vary depending on what "it" refers to. If "it" is a gun, it means discharging a bullet. If "it" is an engine, it means starting the combustion process. The core concept is always about initiating or releasing something.