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to shoot down
[phrase form: shoot]
01
to fire upon an aircraft or another object with the intent of bringing it to the ground
Transitive: to shoot down an aircraft or flying object
Examples
The military had to shoot the enemy aircraft down to protect the airspace.
The fighter jets were ordered to shoot down the incoming missiles.
02
to prevent the progress of something
Transitive: to shoot down a plan or process
Examples
The committee 's decision to shoot down the project disappointed many stakeholders.
Efforts to shoot down the legislation were unsuccessful, and it passed unanimously.
03
to be too harsh on someone just to prove that their ideas are wrong or stupid
Transitive: to shoot down someone's ideas or reputation
Examples
The opposition tried to shoot down the candidate's reputation with negative campaigning.
The online community can be harsh, with individuals quick to shoot down anyone expressing unconventional opinions.
04
to swiftly and forcefully travel in a particular direction
Transitive: to shoot down a path or place
Examples
She shot the hill down, racing with exhilarating speed.
The roller coaster shot down the track, thrilling the riders.
