had them shot

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "had them shot" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts discussing actions taken against individuals, often in a historical or narrative sense. Example: "The dictator had them shot to eliminate any opposition to his rule."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

He'd have had them shot".

The Guardian

They were "short films," he claimed — and rightly, for he had them shot not on videotape but on 35-mm.

The New Yorker

After marching for a few miles, Keith stopped the column, ordered five of the prisoners to kneel, and had them shot by soldiers standing 10 paces away.

The New York Times

Days after Iranian sailors harassed an American Navy vessel, GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump said on Friday he would have had them "shot out of the water".

Los Angeles Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

She said that he often had them shooting scenes that weren't in the original script or trying radically opposed interpretations of the same scene, experimentation that she was happy to embrace.

The New York Times

If any of them tried to leave, he said, waving at the soldiers he had posted along the road, he would have them shot.

The New Yorker

"THE only way to deal with moral hazard is to take out bank bondholders and have them shot," says a hedge-fund manager.

The Economist

"I'd rather just deal with the problem than have them shot," said Jennifer Benenson, 40, who recounted the day she had to stop jogging and halt traffic so a herd of deer could cross busy Wyoming Avenue.

The New York Times

The BBC has released a full transcript of Jeremy Clarkson's "I'd have them shot" interview in an attempt to provide some "context" to the Top Gear presenter's controversial comments about striking public sector workers.

The Guardian

Progress will not be made for another 350 years, when Stalin declares all mosquitoes counterrevolutionary and has them shot or sent to Siberia.

Forbes

Skorzeny was also wary of the fact that he and his men would have to wear American uniforms, which risked having them shot as spies if captured; ultimately, his men were allowed to wear German uniforms under their American clothing.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In historical or fictional narratives, using "had them shot" can create a stark and impactful image, particularly when depicting authoritarian regimes or periods of conflict.

Common error

Avoid using "had them shot" in contexts requiring extreme politeness or sensitivity. The phrase is generally inappropriate for light-hearted or casual conversation due to its serious and potentially disturbing implications. Consider the impact and choose a more tactful alternative in such cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "had them shot" functions as a causative construction, indicating that someone caused or ordered the shooting of others. Ludwig confirms this usage aligns with established English grammar, where 'had' functions as a causative verb.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

58%

Wiki

12%

Encyclopedias

3%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "had them shot" is a grammatically sound causative construction used to express that someone ordered or caused the shooting of others. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in written English, often in contexts involving historical or fictional narratives. While grammatically correct, its usage implies a serious and potentially disturbing act, making it crucial to consider the audience and context. Alternatives like "ordered their execution" or "had them executed" may be more appropriate in formal settings. Its frequency is 'Common', especially within news and media sources. Therefore, when using this phrase, be mindful of its gravity and choose alternatives when necessary to ensure effective and sensitive communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

ordered their execution

Replaces "shot" with a more formal term for killing someone by order.

had them executed

Directly states that they were killed under orders, more formal.

gave the order to shoot them

Emphasizes the act of giving the command to shoot.

commanded their shooting

More formal and emphasizes the command given.

decreed their assassination

Uses a more formal term 'assassination,' suggesting a political motive.

authorized their shooting

Highlights the authorization or permission granted for the shooting.

sanctioned their execution by firing squad

Adds detail about how the execution happened.

gave the green light to eliminate them

Uses a more euphemistic expression for killing.

signed off on their termination

Employs business-like terminology, subtly suggesting an approval to end someone's life.

put out a hit on them

Informal expression, implying a contract killing.

FAQs

What does "had them shot" mean?

The phrase "had them shot" implies someone in a position of authority ordered or arranged for individuals to be killed by gunfire. It suggests a deliberate act of violence sanctioned by someone with power.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "had them shot"?

It is appropriate when describing historical events, fictional scenarios, or situations where someone in authority orders the execution of others. However, use it cautiously and consider the sensitivity of the context.

What are some alternatives to "had them shot"?

You could use alternatives like "ordered their execution", "had them executed", or "gave the order to shoot them", depending on the level of formality and emphasis you want to convey.

Is "had them shot" grammatically correct?

Yes, "had them shot" is grammatically correct. The structure follows the pattern of 'have + object + past participle', which is used to indicate that someone caused something to be done.