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.

---

Example Sentences

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

The governor’s order is sure to draw fire as pressure is building to ease restrictions and slowly reopen the state.

From Washington Times • Apr. 30, 2020

“They should ensure that the stairway door remains closed to lessen the risk of a chimney effect, which can draw fire to the stairwell and cause the fire to spread,” the order reads.

From New York Times • Apr. 10, 2014

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

From "Five Feet Apart" by Rachael Lippincott