Draw somebody’s fire
verb phrase
To attract criticism or anger, usually to protect others or divert attention away from something else.
The CEO drew the fire of the employees during the meeting when he defended the company's controversial policy.
Often appears as...
- draw the fire of the press
- draw public fire
Usage tips
Idiomatic
verb phrase
To attract criticism or anger, usually to protect others or divert attention away from something else.
The CEO drew the fire of the employees during the meeting when he defended the company's controversial policy.
Often appears as...
- draw the fire of the press
- draw public fire
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1
Pro Tip 1/3Protective Distraction
Used when someone intentionally takes blame or criticism to shield others or something else.
During the scandal, the assistant drew the fire to protect the reputation of the senator.
Pro Tip 2/3Diverting Attention
Employed for redirecting negative attention or criticism away from a more important issue.
The spokesperson drew the fire away from the company's financial problems.
Pro Tip 3/3Tactical Use
Often used in strategic contexts, where absorbing criticism is a deliberate choice.
The player drew the fire from the coach after the game loss.
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