informal 10K+

When the bullets start flying

🇬🇧 UK //wɛn ðə ˈbʌlɪts stɑrt ˈflaɪɪŋ// 🇺🇸 US //wɛn ðə ˈbʌlɪts stɑrt ˈflaɪɪŋ//

Meaning of When the bullets start flying

A phrase describing the start of chaotic or violent situations, especially involving gunfire.

In simple words: When shooting starts

When the bullets start flying in a sentence

• Everyone knew it was serious when the bullets started flying during the operation.
• In the movie, the bullets start flying just as the hero makes his entrance.
• Things got real when the bullets began flying at the protest last night.
• When the bullets start flying, you realize who your true friends are.
• The team was well-prepared for when the bullets start flying during the mission.

How to use When the bullets start flying

This phrase is often used in informal contexts to describe moments of chaos or conflict, often in military or action contexts. It may not be suitable for formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone phrase

Memory hint

Imagine a scene where bullets are flying in an action movie, very intense!

Related words

Collocations with When the bullets start flying

• start flying
• bulets flying overhead
• when the bullets start

Synonyms for When the bullets start flying

• when chaos ensues
• when trouble starts
• when the action begins

Common mistakes with When the bullets start flying

• Used inappropriately in non-action contexts.
• Misunderstanding the metaphorical use, thinking it always refers to literal gunfire.

Frequently asked questions about When the bullets start flying

What does When the bullets start flying mean?

When shooting starts

What is the definition of When the bullets start flying?

A phrase describing the start of chaotic or violent situations, especially involving gunfire.

How do you use When the bullets start flying in a sentence?

Everyone knew it was serious when the bullets started flying during the operation.

Can you give another example of When the bullets start flying?

In the movie, the bullets start flying just as the hero makes his entrance.

What are synonyms for When the bullets start flying?

Common alternatives include when chaos ensues, when trouble starts, when the action begins.

What words go with When the bullets start flying?

It commonly pairs with start flying, bulets flying overhead, when the bullets start.

What are common mistakes when using When the bullets start flying?

Used inappropriately in non-action contexts. Misunderstanding the metaphorical use, thinking it always refers to literal gunfire.

How do you pronounce When the bullets start flying?

US: //wɛn ðə ˈbʌlɪts stɑrt ˈflaɪɪŋ//, UK: //wɛn ðə ˈbʌlɪts stɑrt ˈflaɪɪŋ//. Listen to the audio above to hear native pronunciation.

Is When the bullets start flying formal or informal?

"When the bullets start flying" is informal, so it fits casual conversation with friends and family.

When should I use When the bullets start flying?

This phrase is often used in informal contexts to describe moments of chaos or conflict, often in military or action contexts. It may not be suitable for formal writing.