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Region: US | Usage example: We shot the breeze over coffee.

Shoot the breeze

Meaning

Engage in casual conversation.

Usage

Used for relaxed chats.

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

American slang referencing light talk like a breeze.

Mid-20th-century American idiom.

Related Idioms

Shoot yourself in the foot

Harm yourself through your own actions.

Shoot for the moon

Aim for ambitious achievements.

Shoot the moon

Attempt something bold and ambitious

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.