What does “Throwing shade” mean?
The slang phrase "throwing shade" means 'showing disapproval for someone without necessarily saying it.' When someone is "throwing shade", they are subtly expressing their disapproval or criticism towards another person without explicitly stating it. This can involve making sarcastic or snide remarks, giving a condescending look, or using passive-aggressive behavior to undermine or insult someone indirectly.
How is the expression used in real life?
Example
She was throwing shade at him during the meeting, giving him dirty looks.
Example
He's always throwing shade at his coworkers, making sarcastic comments.
Example
The celebrity's tweet was clearly throwing shade at her rival.
What context can I use each expression in?
- 1Expressing disapproval or criticism indirectly
She was throwing shade at him during the meeting, giving him dirty looks.
He's always throwing shade at his coworkers, making sarcastic comments.
- 2Making subtle insults or sarcastic remarks
The celebrity's tweet was clearly throwing shade at her rival.
She's always throwing shade at people's fashion choices.
- 3Showing disapproval without explicitly stating it
Instead of directly criticizing her, he started throwing shade by making snide remarks.
She's constantly throwing shade at her ex-boyfriend on social media.
Good things to know:
What is the origin of the phrase?
"Throwing shade" is believed to have originated in African American and LGBTQ+ communities in the 1980s and 1990s. It gained wider recognition through the ballroom culture and the documentary film 'Paris is Burning'. The phrase has since become popular in mainstream culture.
Can the phrase be used on its own?
While "throwing shade" is typically used within a sentence, it can also be used on its own to convey disapproval or criticism. For example, if someone makes a sarcastic comment, you might respond with "Throwing shade" to acknowledge their disapproval.
Is the phrase offensive?
"Throwing shade" is not offensive in itself. It's a slang term used to show disapproval for someone without explicitly stating it.
Audience for the phrase
"Throwing shade" is commonly used by younger generations, especially millennials and Gen Z. It is prevalent in LGBTQ+ communities, as well as in pop culture, social media, and entertainment industries.
Is the phrase specific to an accent or country?
"Throwing shade" originated in the US and is primarily used in American English. However, it has gained popularity and recognition in other English-speaking regions through the influence of media and online platforms.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- criticizing
- disapproving
- throwing shade
- making snide remarks
- showing disapproval
