SHOOTS DOWN Meaning and
Definition
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"Shoots down" is a phrasal verb primarily used in informal contexts, and it refers to the act of dismissing, rejecting, or disproving an idea, proposal, suggestion, or argument forcefully or decisively. This expression has its origins in military or aerial combat, where the aim is to bring down or destroy enemy planes by shooting them. However, when used figuratively, "shoots down" does not involve any actual shooting or violence, but rather the act of refuting or negating a statement or claim with strong or convincing counterarguments.
When someone "shoots down" an idea or proposal, they present valid reasons or evidence to prove that it is wrong, flawed, or unrealistic. This could occur in various settings, such as a business meeting, academic discussion, or casual conversation. The intention behind shooting down an idea is often to demonstrate its weaknesses, challenge its credibility, or steer the conversation towards a different solution or perspective.
It is important to note that while "shoots down" typically implies a forceful rejection, it does not necessarily imply a disrespectful or confrontational attitude. It is a common colloquial expression used to describe a persuasive or compelling response that undermines the validity or feasibility of an argument or suggestion.
Common Misspellings for SHOOTS DOWN
- ahoots down
- zhoots down
- xhoots down
- dhoots down
- ehoots down
- whoots down
- sgoots down
- sboots down
- snoots down
- sjoots down
- suoots down
- syoots down
- shiots down
- shkots down
- shlots down
- shpots down
- sh0ots down
- sh9ots down
- shoits down
- shokts down
Etymology of SHOOTS DOWN
The phrase "shoots down" is a compound verb that combines the verb "shoot" with the preposition "down". In this context, "shoots" refers to firing a projectile or directing something with force. The word "down" indicates the direction in which the action is being directed.
"Shoot" has its roots in the Old English word "sceotan", which meant "to discharge missiles from a bow or firearm". This word can be traced back further to the Proto-Germanic word "skjutanan". Similarly, "down" comes from the Old English word "dūne", which meant "from higher to lower place". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "dūnaz" meaning "hill" or "mound".
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