The manager gave us a shot across the bow about our late reports.
shot across the bow
idiomA warning that negative consequences will be faced if something is carried out or allowed to continue.
Origin
disputed originFrom the naval tactic of firing a warning shot across the bow or front portion of a ship in order to force it to stop or alter its course.
The regulator issued a shot across the bow, warning the company that further violations would lead to heavy fines.
By canceling the contract, the client fired a shot across the bow, signaling that they would no longer tolerate the firm's consistent failure to meet deadlines.
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another string to one's bow
Another skill, ability or resource to be used in case of failure.
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big shot
A person with a reputation of importance or power.
- 03
bow and scrape
To behave in a servile, obsequious, or excessively polite manner.
- 04
bow down
To bow, to bend oneself as a gesture of deference or respect.
- 05
bow down before the porcelain god
Synonym of worship the porcelain god (“to vomit into a toilet bowl”).
- 06
bow out
To resign, or leave, with one's credibility or reputation still intact.
- 07
chip shot
Something that is easy to do or to achieve.
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draw a long bow
To lie; to exaggerate.