A shot across the/somebody’s bows

usgb
phrase

A warning that someone should stop doing something or prepare for serious trouble.

The teacher's stern note to the parents was a shot across the bow, hinting at possible expulsion if the student's behavior did not improve.
Visual representation of "a shot across the/somebody’s bows" - A warning that someone should stop doing something or prepare for serious trouble.

Often appears as...

  • send a shot across the bows
  • take a shot across the bows

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a shot across the/somebody’s bows"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Metaphoric Origin

Originally a naval term, signaling a warning shot without intent to harm, now used metaphorically.

Illustration for Metaphoric Origin
The CEO's comment about layoffs was a shot across the bow to underperforming departments.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Serious Consequences

Implies that if the warning is ignored, there will be serious, possibly harsh consequences.

Illustration for Serious Consequences
The ultimatum was a clear shot across the bow to the competitors.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Not Literal

The phrase is figurative and does not refer to actual shots or bows from a ship.

Illustration for Not Literal
Her public criticism was a shot across the bow to the committee.
Visual representation of the word "A shot across the/somebody’s bows"

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