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

See Examples For:

draw fire

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

He may also draw fire because he is unusually mild-mannered for such a highly charged time.

From Seattle Times ● Jul. 20, 2021

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

And sometimes, more dangerously, the hope was that the fake army would draw fire, sparing troops elsewhere.

From New York Times ● May 20, 2013

I grab red, orange, and yellow pencils and draw fire coming out of her mouth.

From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott