arrows
B1Neutral to formal; the literal weapon sense is less common in everyday modern contexts, while the symbolic sense is frequent.
Definition
Meaning
Plural of 'arrow': a long, thin weapon with a pointed head, shot from a bow.
Anything resembling an arrow in shape or function, such as a symbol indicating direction or movement, or a projectile in a broader sense.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The word functions primarily as a plural noun. The concept combines concrete weaponry with the abstract idea of direction/guidance. Metaphorical extensions are common in computing (cursor), signage, and diagrams.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Minimal difference for the noun. Minor spelling preference in compounds: UK 'arrowhead', US also 'arrow-head' (less common). The directional symbol is universally called an 'arrow'.
Connotations
In both, evokes historical warfare, archery as a sport, and clear direction. In UK contexts, might have a slightly stronger association with historical/mythological (e.g., Robin Hood) references.
Frequency
Comparable frequency. The symbolic use (signs, interfaces) is dominant in everyday language for both.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
N + V: The arrows flew.V + N: He fletched the arrows.ADJ + N: Flaming arrows.PREP + N: A target for their arrows.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “straight arrow (an honest/conventional person)”
- “have arrows in one's quiver (to have resources/options)”
- “shot his bolt/arrow (made his best effort)”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
In presentations: 'The green arrows indicate growth.' In flowcharts: 'Decision points are marked with arrows.'
Academic
In diagrams: 'Arrows denote causal relationships.' In history: 'The army was equipped with bows and arrows.'
Everyday
Giving directions: 'Just follow the arrows on the floor.' Discussing sport: 'She's learning to shoot arrows.'
Technical
In computing: 'Use the arrow keys to navigate.' In engineering/process diagrams: 'Arrows show the direction of flow.'
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He arrowed the ball into the top corner of the net.
American English
- She arrowed a pass to the open receiver.
adverb
British English
- The rocket went arrow-straight upwards.
American English
- He ran arrow-fast to the finish line.
adjective
British English
- The arrow speed was measured in feet per second.
- An arrow-straight road.
American English
- The arrow trajectory was flat.
- He made an arrow-quick move.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- Look at the arrows on the sign.
- The picture shows three arrows.
- Follow the red arrows to the exit.
- Ancient warriors used bows and arrows.
- The diagram uses arrows to illustrate the process.
- His criticism was like arrows aimed at our policy.
- The economic indicators are all pointing in different directions, a veritable flight of contradictory arrows.
- She navigated the complex legal document, her eyes following the arrows of cross-references.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
ARRows point the wAY, like ARRow keys on your keyboard help you navigate. Both start with 'AR'.
Conceptual Metaphor
DIRECTION IS AN ARROW (e.g., 'pointing the way forward', 'a sharp rise'); ATTACK IS PROJECTING ARROWS (e.g., 'a barrage of criticism'); PURPOSE/INTENT IS A TARGETED ARROW (e.g., 'his remarks were right on target').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not confuse with 'стрелы' only in the weapon sense; the directional symbol is also 'стрелка'.
- The idiom 'straight arrow' does not translate directly to 'прямая стрела'; it means 'честный, безупречный человек'.
- The plural form is regular, unlike some Russian nouns.
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect singular/plural: 'an arrows' (correct: 'an arrow').
- Spelling: 'arows' (missing double 'r').
- Using 'arrow' as a verb for 'to move like an arrow' is poetic/rare; better to say 'streak' or 'shoot'.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is the word 'arrows' LEAST likely to be used literally today?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, its most frequent modern use is as a directional symbol on signs, in diagrams, and on computer interfaces.
An arrow is shot from a bow and is generally longer. A dart is a smaller, lighter projectile, typically thrown by hand (like in a game of darts) or shot from a blowpipe.
Yes, but it is less common. It means to move swiftly and directly like an arrow (e.g., 'The hawk arrowed toward its prey').
It describes a person who is very honest, morally upright, and conventional in behaviour.