Shoot the messenger Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To blame or punish the person who brings bad news, instead of addressing the real problem.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiom, not literal. Used when someone unfairly blames the bearer of bad news. Common in both informal and formal contexts, often said as advice: 'Don't shoot the messenger!'.
Example Sentences
Please don’t shoot the messenger—I’m just telling you what the boss said.
basic
Every time there’s bad news, he tries to shoot the messenger.
basic
Don’t shoot the messenger if you don’t like what you hear.
basic
I’m only the messenger, so don’t shoot the messenger!
natural
Whenever there’s a problem, it feels like staff just want to shoot the messenger instead of fixing it.
natural
Look, I’m not responsible for the changes—don’t shoot the messenger just because I’m telling you about them.
natural