young gun
C1Informal, colloquial.
Definition
Meaning
A young, ambitious, and aggressive person, often newly prominent in a competitive field.
An individual, typically a man, who is seen as talented, energetic, and a potential rising star in professions like business, sports, politics, or law; sometimes implying a degree of brashness or cockiness.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
Primarily metaphorical; derived from the image of a young, fast-drawing gunslinger in the American Old West. Can be used admiringly or with mild disparagement. Often pluralized (young guns).
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Term originates in American English and is strongly associated with US culture (Wild West). In British English, it is understood but recognised as an Americanism.
Connotations
US: Strong association with innovation, risk-taking, and disruptive energy. UK: May carry a slight connotation of imported American bravado.
Frequency
More frequent in American English; used in British English, often in business/journalism contexts.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
[determiner] + young gun + [prepositional phrase/of-phrase][be/consider] + a young gunVocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “The young guns are taking over.”
- “Too many young guns and not enough experience.”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Refers to aggressive junior executives or startup founders disrupting an industry.
Academic
Rare; might be used informally to describe a precocious researcher.
Everyday
Used to describe a talented, confident young person in any competitive arena (sports, gaming).
Technical
Not used in technical registers.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- He is a young gun in the football team.
- The company hired several young guns to develop new ideas.
- The magazine's list of '30 Under 30' features the brightest young guns in technology.
- While the veteran partners were cautious, the young guns in the firm advocated for a bold, aggressive acquisition strategy.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a YOUNG cowboy in a duel, quick to draw his GUN – fast, bold, and making a name for himself.
Conceptual Metaphor
CAREER IS A DUEL / COMPETITION IS A WESTERN.
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid literal translation "молодой пистолет". Use "восходящая звезда", "подающий надежды", or "молодой и амбициозный специалист".
Common Mistakes
- Using it for literal firearms (e.g., 'The soldier carried a young gun').
- Using it for someone who is merely young without the competitive/aggressive connotation.
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'young gun' LEAST likely to be used appropriately?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, though it is statistically and stereotypically more often applied to men. The phrase itself is not gendered, and 'young gun' can be used for a woman, especially in modern contexts.
It is context-dependent. It is usually a compliment highlighting talent and potential, but it can imply criticism if the focus is on inexperience, overconfidence, or recklessness.
A 'rookie' is simply a beginner or first-year participant. A 'young gun' implies not just newness but also notable talent, ambition, aggressive style, and the potential to surpass others.
It originates from the American Wild West, referring to a young, fast-drawing gunslinger. The metaphorical use for a competitive, rising individual became popular in the late 20th century.