draw fire

Idioms  

1. Encounter criticism, as in His recent article was bound to draw fire. This expression uses the verb draw in the sense of “attract” or “provoke,” and transfers fire in the sense of “gunfire” to a somewhat milder attack.

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Example Sentences

During the battle, Puckett sprinted across an open area to draw fire so that Rangers could spot and target enemy machine-gunners.

From Seattle Times • Apr. 29, 2024

As Barrymore continued to draw fire – especially after she posted a tearful apology, which she promptly took down – other talk shows, including "The Talk" and "Sherri" announced their fall season returns as well.

From Salon • Sep. 17, 2023

The companies may also draw fire on Tuesday for a widely criticized plan to give Albertsons' shareholders a $4 billion dividend payment.

From Reuters • Nov. 29, 2022

As a public figure, Porterfield should acknowledge and accept that divisive comments and inflammatory name calling will draw fire.

From Washington Times • Feb. 13, 2019

I draw fire and water forgetting all the rules and morphing into something new.

From "Starfish" by Akemi Dawn Bowman