English Explanatory Dictionary

shot across the bow

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A warning that negative consequences will be faced if something is carried out or allowed to continue.

Pronunciation

/ˈʃɒt əˌkɹɒs ðə ˈbaʊ/ /ˈʃɑt əˌkɹɔs ðə ˈbaʊ/ En-us-shot across the bow.mp3 En-au-shot across the bow.ogg

Word forms

shot across the bow shots across the bow shot across the bows

Etymology

From the naval tactic of firing a warning shot across the bow or front portion of a ship in order to force it to stop or alter its course.

Synonyms

warning shot
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