abrir fuego
open fire
The Spanish phrase 'abrir fuego' translates directly to 'open fire' in English. This phrase is often used in a military or action context to indicate the start of shooting or combat. However, it does not refer to the act of starting a literal fire. Instead, it's a metaphor for launching an aggressive action or attack, similar to the way one might 'ignite' or 'launch' an initiative or discussion.
Example sentences using: abrir fuego
El soldado recibió órdenes de abrir fuego contra el enemigo.
The soldier received orders to open fire on the enemy.
In this sentence, 'abrir fuego' is used in a military context. The soldier is given an instruction indicating that he should start firing his weapon at the enemy.
Si no se rinden, vamos a tener que abrir fuego.
If they don't surrender, we will have to open fire.
Here, 'abrir fuego' is used as a threat of force. The speaker suggests that if the other party does not comply, they will respond with violence.
Los policías optaron por abrir fuego cuando los delincuentes intentaron escapar.
The police chose to open fire when the criminals tried to escape.
In this example, 'abrir fuego' portrays the action of the police in a situation when criminals try to escape. Here, the decision to 'abrir fuego' is used to stop the criminals from fleeing.