don't shoot the messenger
Meaning
Don’t blame or punish the person who delivers bad news; they’re not responsible for the problem.
Origin
From an ancient convention in war and diplomacy: messengers carrying news between sides were not to be harmed. The phrase warns against misdirected anger at the bearer of bad news.
Notes
Used when someone misdirects anger at the bearer of bad news. Often mildly defensive or wry. Common in conversation and workplaces; can sound sharp if overused.
Examples
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I’m just reporting what the CFO said—don’t shoot the messenger.
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Don’t shoot the messenger, but your flight has been canceled.
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She shot the messenger and blamed the intern for the client’s decision.
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Don’t shoot the messenger; I didn’t make the rules, I’m just enforcing them.
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He tends to shoot the messenger whenever the numbers look bad.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Usually an imperative: “Don’t shoot the messenger.” Also appears as “shoot the messenger” (verb phrase) and in past tense (“shot the messenger”). Article typically “the messenger.”
Synonyms
- don't blame the bearer of bad news
- don't kill the messenger
- don't take it out on me
Antonyms
- thank the messenger
- appreciate the heads-up