# draw fire

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/draw-fire
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

To create a distraction that allows one's friends, co-workers, or other associates to gain an advantage over the distracted party.

## Examples

- I will draw fire so you can escape.
- The manager decided to draw fire during the meeting, allowing his team to finish their presentation without further interruptions.
- By publicly questioning the board's decision, the director drew fire, which provided the necessary cover for the junior staff to implement their new strategy unnoticed.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.