The idiom "shoot from the hip" means to speak or act without thinking carefully beforehand. It is often used to describe someone who is impulsive, spontaneous, or speaks their mind without considering the consequences of their words or actions.
This expression comes from the idea of a cowboy who would draw his gun from his holster and shoot without taking the time to aim properly. In the same way, someone who "shoots from the hip" is acting quickly and without much thought.
You might use this expression to describe someone who is known for being blunt or straightforward in their communication style, even if it sometimes gets them into trouble. Alternatively, you might use it to criticize someone for being too hasty or impulsive in their decision-making.
For example, you might say, "I wouldn't trust him to make an important decision - he tends to shoot from the hip and doesn't always think things through." Or, "She's a great speaker, but sometimes she shoots from the hip and says things that are offensive or hurtful."
• I don't like to shoot from the hip, I prefer to think before I speak.
• As a journalist, it's important to be able to shoot from the hip and ask tough questions when necessary.
• The CEO's ability to shoot from the hip and make quick decisions has been a key factor in the company's success.
• I know I can always count on you to shoot from the hip and tell me the truth, even if it's hard to hear.
• My boss always shoots from the hip during meetings, he never prepares anything in advance.
• The politician's tendency to shoot from the hip has caused him many problems in the past.