Shooting from the hip is a phrase that means to speak or act impulsively without careful consideration. The spelling of "shooting" is /ˈʃuːtɪŋ/, with the 'oo' sound as in 'shoe', followed by a 't' and an 'i' which is pronounced as 'ih'. The word "hip" is pronounced /hɪp/, with the 'i' as in 'it', and the 'p' sound. The phrase has origins in western movies, where cowboys would literally shoot their guns from the hip, rather than aiming down the sights.
The phrase "shooting from the hip" generally refers to speaking or acting in a spontaneous or impulsive manner without much forethought or careful consideration. This idiomatic expression is often used to depict someone who responds quickly without planning or weighing the consequences, similar to the action of firing a gun from the hip without aiming.
The term has its roots in the Old West, where gunslingers would holster their revolvers on the hip instead of the traditional gun belt. Shooting from the hip entailed drawing and firing their weapon without raising it to eye level, sacrificing accuracy for speed during sudden confrontations. In a figurative sense, "shooting from the hip" reflects a similar lack of precision or thoughtfulness in verbal or behavioral responses.
The phrase is commonly used to describe individuals who tend to speak impulsively, relying on intuition or their first instinct rather than carefully considering their words. It often suggests that such individuals may lack tact, diplomacy, or consideration for the consequences of their actions. "Shooting from the hip" can also connote an element of brashness or recklessness, as it disregards the methodical approach favored in certain situations. Overall, the term conveys a sense of spontaneity, urgency, and carelessness in decision-making or communication.