shooting the bull
Casual aimless conversation
Shooting the bull is engaging in idle, rambling conversation—talking for its own sake rather than to accomplish anything.
The phrase suggests casual banter that may include exaggeration or bullshit: We spent the afternoon shooting the bull on the porch.
Also shoot the breeze.
- chattingInformal verbal exchange
- chewing the fatEngaging in leisurely conversation
- storyAccount of events
- jokeHumorous statement seeking laughter
- jokingSaying things in fun
fraternizing · jawing · idle chatter · small talk · embellishing · camaraderie · tale · bantering · yarn · gossip · nattering · exaggerating · tall tales · discussing · talking shop · bonding · mingling · bullshitting
shooting the bullheart-to-heart
Sincere personal discussion
getting down to business · negotiating · debating · getting down to brass tacks · conferring
shooting the bulltelling the truth
speaking frankly · stating facts · cutting to the chase · telling it like it is
shooting the bullgetting down to brass tacks
Reaching essential specifics
working · problem-solving · strategizing · planning · taking action
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