What do you consider a "shots fired" sort of action towards a person who's pursuing you?

[DishLady]

"Shots Fired" (for those who don't know)...

Original Meaning: The original term comes from military/law enforcement's standard warning that a firearm was discharged, indicating a possible dangerous situation requiring backup/assistance.

Conversational Slang: Thanks to social media culture, the phrase is now used for dramatic/humorous effect in response to a harsh insult/critique/provocation indicating that a conflict has escalated.

[OlderAndWiser]

Are you asking what you can do to make the pursuer turn and run?

[DishLady]

No, I mean in situations where perhaps a friend tries to intervene and say something like "my friend is a nice person and you're hurting their feelings" or "shit or get off the pot" sort of thing... is that considered a "shots fired" to scare the other person off?

[OlderAndWiser]

I would reply, "Tell him that if he has something to say to me, he should say it directly and not send a messenger."

[DishLady]

I've done that... That's not the question. I'm asking what you, as the guy, would consider "shots fired" from a gal or someone who is talking to you on her behalf. (They think they're being kind in intervening but it's often just an extra hurdle for the guy.)

[_Jenny_]

@DishLady I’m going to start using that here lol

[DishLady]

Lol. You should. I learned it from another person on G@G. I had never thought of it before.