shoot down, to
Definition: To refute an argument completely; to debunk or expose as false. The term originates from aerial warfare in World War I and was initially put as “shoot down in flames.” It became a figurative expression by World War II.
Example in Literature: J. B. Hilton used it in Playground of Death (1981): “Please shoot me down in flames if you think I’m making a bloody fool of myself.”
Related and Similar Terms:
- Knock off its perch: To dethrone or defeat, often used in contexts of taking down a champion.
- Debunk: To expose the falseness of a myth, idea, or belief.
- Dismiss: To reject an idea or argument emphatically.
- Disprove: To prove that something is not true.
- Invalidate: To render an argument or idea invalid.
- Counter: To respond to an argument with a counter-argument.
Synonyms:
- Refute
- Disprove
- Contradict
- Rebut
- Invalidate
Antonyms:
- Validate
- Substantiate
- Confirm
- Corroborate
- Uphold
Humor-Filled Quote:
“If your argument could be shot down any easier, it would come with a complimentary parachute!” 😆
Proverbs:
- “The truth is incontrovertible.”
- “A lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes.” - Often misattributed to Mark Twain.
Suggested Reading:
- Factfulness by Hans Rosling
- Bad Science by Ben Goldacre
- On Bullshit by Harry G. Frankfurt
Movies:
- Thank You for Smoking (2005) - A wickedly smart satire on argumentation and spin.
- 12 Angry Men (1957) - A masterclass in debunking and argumentation.
- The Great Debaters (2007) - A stirring story about the power of argument and debate.
Inspirational Thought:
“Arguing is like shooting arrows. The more precise you are, the less your target stands a chance. Yet always aim for the truth, not just the win.” - J. Artefact
Thank you for exploring “Shoot Down, to”. Wishing you precise and enlightening arguments ahead! Keep aiming for the truth. 🚀
