Shoot the messenger
idiom
To blame the person who delivers bad news.
Don't shoot the messenger, I'm just telling you what the boss said.
Often appears as...
- don't shoot the messenger.
- please
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To hold the person who gives information responsible for the bad news he or she provides.
The coach was angry about the team's low ranking, but there was no need to shoot the messenger - I was just reading out the league tables.
Often appears as...
- i hope he doesn't shoot the messenger.
- they often shoot the messenger.
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To blame the person who delivers bad news.
Don't shoot the messenger, I'm just telling you what the boss said.
Often appears as...
- don't shoot the messenger.
- please
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To hold the person who gives information responsible for the bad news he or she provides.
The coach was angry about the team's low ranking, but there was no need to shoot the messenger - I was just reading out the league tables.
Often appears as...
- i hope he doesn't shoot the messenger.
- they often shoot the messenger.
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Context
Used when someone is unfairly blamed for conveying unfavorable news.
The team lost, but don't shoot the messenger; I just heard it too.
Pro Tip 2/3Defensive Tone
People often say 'Don't shoot the messenger' as a way to protect themselves.
I don't know why we're out of stock—don't shoot the messenger!
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphoric Phrase
It's a metaphor; no actual shooting is happening, it's about not blaming.
I'm just delivering the news, so please don't shoot the messenger.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Context
Used when someone is unfairly blamed for conveying unfavorable news.
The team lost, but don't shoot the messenger; I just heard it too.
Pro Tip 2/3Defensive Tone
People often say 'Don't shoot the messenger' as a way to protect themselves.
I don't know why we're out of stock—don't shoot the messenger!
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphoric Phrase
It's a metaphor; no actual shooting is happening, it's about not blaming.
I'm just delivering the news, so please don't shoot the messenger.
Pro Tip 1/3Negative Context
Used when someone is unfairly blamed for conveying unfavorable news.
The team lost, but don't shoot the messenger; I just heard it too.
Pro Tip 2/3Defensive Tone
People often say 'Don't shoot the messenger' as a way to protect themselves.
I don't know why we're out of stock—don't shoot the messenger!
Pro Tip 3/3Metaphoric Phrase
It's a metaphor; no actual shooting is happening, it's about not blaming.
I'm just delivering the news, so please don't shoot the messenger.
Never forget "Shoot the messenger"
Humans forget easily. That's why you should download WordUp: Smart reminders, word games, AI practice, and much more!
WordUp Chrome Extension
As you browse the web instantly look up words you don’t know.
Get Chrome Extension