francotirador
frahn-ko-tee-rah-dor
📝 In Action
El francotirador estaba escondido en la torre del reloj.
B1The sniper was hidden in the clock tower.
La película trata sobre un francotirador durante la guerra.
A2The movie is about a sharpshooter during the war.
Un buen francotirador necesita mucha paciencia.
B1A good sniper needs a lot of patience.
💡 Grammar Points
A Word Made of Two Parts
This is a 'compound word.' It combines 'franco' (meaning free or direct) and 'tirador' (shooter).
Using the Word
Since this word ends in '-or' and refers to a person, it is usually masculine. If you want to talk about a female sniper, you would typically use 'la francotiradora'.
❌ Common Pitfalls
Don't confuse with 'tirador'
Mistake: "Using 'tirador' for a professional sniper."
Correction: Use 'francotirador' specifically for someone trained to shoot from a hidden spot at long distances. A 'tirador' is just anyone who shoots.
⭐ Usage Tips
Figurative Use
Sometimes people use this word in politics or business to describe someone who acts alone to 'attack' others with words or criticism.
✏️ Quick Practice
💡 Quick Quiz: francotirador
Question 1 of 2
What is the primary role of a 'francotirador'?
📚 More Resources
Frequently Asked Questions
Does it always mean someone in the military?
Usually, yes. However, it can also refer to police marksmen or, in a figurative sense, a person who launches surprise criticisms against their own group or organization.
Is there a female version of this word?
Yes, for a female sniper you would use 'la francotiradora'.