Circular firing squad Meaning in English
expression
Definition
A situation where a group harms itself by attacking its own members instead of working together, often used to describe pointless internal conflict that weakens the whole group.
Usage & Nuances
This is a figurative, often political or organizational idiom. Not for literal use. Used to criticize groups that self-damage through internal blame or fights. Strong negative meaning; usually appears in media, analysis, or sarcastic speech. Seldom used in formal writing.
Example Sentences
The committee became a circular firing squad when members started blaming each other.
basic
The team was supposed to unite, but instead they formed a circular firing squad.
basic
Fighting among members turned the project into a circular firing squad.
basic
Online debates these days are just a circular firing squad—everyone attacks their own side.
natural
If we keep acting like a circular firing squad, we'll never solve our problems.
natural
Their campaign meetings turned into a circular firing squad, leaving them weaker before the election.
natural