shrapnel

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "shrapnel" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to fragments of a bomb, shell, or other explosive device that are scattered when it detonates, often used in military or war contexts. Example: "The battlefield was littered with shrapnel from the recent explosion, making it dangerous for the soldiers to advance."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A preliminary report from the scene by Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe found that the 12 dead and 17 wounded passengers had been hit by shrapnel from a nearby rocket impact.

The Guardian

Presumably by wearing one of them as a hat so they got the shrapnel before him.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

After two inexplicably successful solo albums, it's unlikely he's scrabbling around behind the sofa cushions for errant shrapnel.

The Guardian - Music

A starburst shrapnel scar across her hand is a reminder of the first time she witnessed the horror firsthand.

The Guardian

Related: Vape is the new selfie: what the 2014 word of the year says about our times The first world war features heavily, with U-boats, the Eastern front, Tommies, shrapnel and mustard gas all featuring in stories.

The Guardian - Tech

As they reached the hill, shrapnel rained down, but Tom didn't give up.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When World Service correspondent William Reeve dived under his desk in Kabul to avoid shrapnel from the US missile that had landed next door, some think it marked a turning point in war reporting.

The Guardian

It can stop fragments of glass and similar shrapnel, but is thin enough to be translucent and thus let a useful amount of daylight through a window.

The Economist

Teddy Jobbagy, Wallenberg's driver, died after being hit here by shrapnel.

The Economist

As the players and umpires cowered on the floor of their vehicles for 20 minutes while the bullets flew, several received shrapnel wounds.

The Economist

But it later emerged that Mr Saleh was badly burned, with shrapnel lodging close to his heart.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about incidents involving explosions, use "shrapnel" to specifically denote fragments from explosive devices. For general debris, consider alternatives like "fragments" or "debris".

Common error

Avoid using "shrapnel" to describe debris from non-explosive events. "Shrapnel" specifically refers to fragments scattered by an explosion, particularly from artillery shells or bombs. Using it for general debris will be incorrect.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "shrapnel" is as a noun, typically used to denote fragments scattered by an explosion. Ludwig AI confirms this usage through numerous examples where "shrapnel" acts as the subject or object of a sentence.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

79%

Science

21%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "shrapnel" is a noun that refers to fragments scattered by an explosion. Ludwig AI confirms that it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in News & Media. When writing, use "shrapnel" to specifically denote fragments from explosive devices. It's crucial to avoid using it for general debris. Alternatives include "fragments" or "debris", depending on the context. Understanding its function and purpose will ensure accurate and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shell fragments

Refers specifically to pieces of a shell after it explodes.

bomb fragments

Specifically indicates pieces resulting from a bomb explosion.

projectile debris

General term for scattered pieces from any kind of projectile.

explosive remnants

Broader term that includes any remaining parts after an explosion, not just fragments.

flying debris

Emphasizes the motion of the scattered pieces.

fragmentation material

Material designed to break into fragments upon explosion.

splintered remains

Describes broken pieces of something, often wood or other brittle materials.

scattered fragments

Highlights the dispersion of the pieces.

war debris

Refers to the general waste and fragments left after warfare.

metallic shards

Specifies that the broken pieces are metallic.

FAQs

How is "shrapnel" typically used in a sentence?

"Shrapnel" is usually used to describe fragments of a bomb, shell, or other explosive device that are scattered when it detonates. For example, "The victims were injured by "flying shrapnel" after the explosion."

What are some alternatives to using the word "shrapnel"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "fragments", "debris", or "shell fragments" to describe pieces scattered by an explosion.

Is it correct to use "shrapnel" to describe broken glass from a window?

No, it is not correct. "Shrapnel" specifically refers to fragments from explosive devices. For broken glass, use terms like "glass shards" or "broken glass".

What's the difference between "shrapnel" and "splinter"?

"Shrapnel" refers to fragments from an explosive device, while "splinter" typically refers to a small, sharp piece of wood or glass. Thus, "shrapnel" results from explosions, and "splinter" from the breaking of something.