Shot Me Down: Definition, Meaning, and Origin

Last Updated on
September 14, 2023

The idiom "shot me down" means to reject, criticize, or ruin someone or something. It comes from the literal sense of shooting something down with a weapon and has been used figuratively since the 19th century.

In short:

  • It signifies refusing, denouncing, or destroying someone or something.
  • It comes from the literal sense of shooting something down with a weapon.

What Does "Shot Me Down" Mean?

"Shot me down" means to reject, foil, or disappoint the aspirations of someone or something. This can happen when someone refuses to accept an idea, a suggestion, a proposal, or a request from another person. It can also occur when someone exposes the flaws or weaknesses of another person's argument, claim, or theory.

Where Does "Shot Me Down" Come From?

The origin of the idiom "shot me down" is based on the literal sense of shooting something down with a weapon. Its symbolic meaning of rejecting or criticizing someone or something emerged in the 19th century. Such expression became more popular in the 1950s and 1960s when it was used to refer to any decisive defeat or rejection.

Historical Example

"Mr. Gladstone was shot down by Mr. Disraeli with an overwhelming majority."

—The Graphic, 1876

10 Examples of "Shot Me Down" in Sentences

Here are some examples of how to use this idiom in different sentences:

  • About last night, I asked her out on a date. Lo and behold, she shot me down without hesitation.
  • It sucks ass that she shot me down with a simple question I couldn't answer.
  • Yoink. He was confident about his thesis, but his professor shot it down with one remark.
  • I tried to make up a joke, but he shot me down with a sarcastic remark.
  • What a scrub. He shot me down every time I tried to make a suggestion.
  • Son of a biscuit! He shot me down with a sarcastic comment that made everyone laugh.
  • I tried to help him, but he shot me down and said he didn't need my advice.
  • She wanted to travel the world, but her fears shot her down and kept her from enjoying life.
  • He proposed, but she shot him down and broke his heart. That's why he's still single now.
  • I wanted to go to the party, but my parents shot me down and said I had to stay home.

Examples of "Shot Me Down" in Pop Culture

Here are some examples of how this idiom appeared in various forms of popular culture:

  • Shot Me Down: A song by David Guetta featuring Skylar Grey, released in 2014. The song samples Nancy Sinatra's 1966 hit "Bang Bang (My Baby Shot Me Down)," also covered by Cher and Bon Jovi.
  • Shot Down: A book by Steve Snyder, published in 2014. The book tells the story of the author's father, a B-17 pilot who survived being shot down over Belgium during World War II.
  • "You Shot Me Down": An episode of the TV series CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, aired in 2013. The episode features a case involving a sniper who shoots down a plane carrying a witness.

Other Ways to Say "Shot Me Down"

Here are some similar phrases for the idiom "shot me down":

  • Rejected me
  • Turned me down
  • Shut me down
  • Put me down
  • Knocked me down
  • Cut me down
  • Shot me out of the sky
  • Shot me to pieces

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Shot Me Down"

Here are some frequently asked questions and answers about the idiom:

  • What does "shot me down" mean?

"Shot me down" means to reject, foil, or disappoint the aspirations of someone or something. This can happen when someone refuses to accept an idea, a suggestion, a proposal, or a request from another person.

  • What is the origin of the phrase "shot me down"?

The origin of the idiom "shot me down" is based on the literal sense of shooting something down with a weapon. Its symbolic meaning of rejecting or criticizing someone or something emerged in the 19th century. Such expression became more popular in the 1950s and 1960s when it was used to refer to any decisive defeat or rejection.

  • What are some synonyms for "shot me down"?

Some synonyms for "shot me down" are "rejected me," "turned me down," "shut me down," "knocked me down," "cut me down," and "shot me to pieces."

  • What are some antonyms for "shot me down"?

Some antonyms for "shot me down" are "accepted me," "agreed with me," "supported me," "built me up," and "lifted me up."

  • Is "shot me down" a rude expression?

It depends on the context and tone of the speaker. "Shot me down" can be used playfully or humorously, such as when someone jokes about being rejected by a crush. However, it can also be used harshly or angrily, such as when someone complains about being criticized by a boss or a colleague.

  • Can I use "shot me down" in formal writing?

No, using "shot me down" in formal writing, such as academic essays, business reports, or official letters, is not advisable. "Shot me down" is an informal and colloquial expression that may not be appropriate for professional or academic settings. Instead, you can use more formal words or phrases, such as rejected, refused, denied, disproved, discredited, or undermined.

  • What is the difference between "shot me down" and "shot me up"?

"Shot me down" means to reject, criticize, or ruin someone or something, while "shot me up" means to inject someone or oneself with a drug, especially heroin.

  • How can I use "shot me down" in a positive way?

You can use "shot me down" in a positive way by adding words or phrases that show resilience, optimism, or determination.

  • What are some idioms similar to "shot me down"?

Some idioms that have similar meanings to "shot me down" are "rained on my parade," "burst my bubble," "poured cold water on something," "threw a wrench in the works," and "pulled the rug out from under someone."

  • How can I say "shot me down" in other languages?

French: Il/elle m'a descendu (He/she shot me down)
German: Er/sie hat mich abgeschossen (He/she shot me down)
Italian: Mi ha respinto (He/she turned me down)

Final Thoughts About "Shot Me Down"

The idiom "shot me down" is a common and versatile expression in various contexts and situations. It can mean to reject, criticize, or ruin someone or something.

To summarize:

  • It means to reject, criticize, or ruin someone or something.
  • It comes from the literal sense of shooting something down with a weapon.
  • It has been used figuratively since the 19th century.
  • It has some synonyms and antonyms, and also different variations.

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