Are you a single woman feeling harassed at a local nightclub or bar? Approach the bartender and ask them for an ‘Angel shot.’ The staff will take care of the problem for you.
This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression ‘angle shot’ is a byproduct of the #MeToo movement. Sexual violence is commonplace in the United States, and the angel shot provides women with a way to feel safe when they are out in the town alone.
The ‘angel shot’ is a code you say to the bartender when someone is harassing you at the bar or venue, making you feel unsafe. If you approach the bar and order an angel shot, the bartender will know what you mean and arrange with security to remove the threatening person from the premises.
The angel shot is well-known in large American cities like Miami, LA, and NYC. It helps women avoid sexual harassment and assault. No official data shows how many women benefited from ordering an angel shot.
Example Usage
“That guy won’t leave me alone, and I don’t know what to do. Should I go to the bar and order an angel shot to get rid of him?”
“If you ever have problems with someone harassing you at an NYC bar, ask the bartender for an angel shot. They’ll take care of your problem.”
“The angle shot isn’t a drink; it’s a code word for removing a threat to you from the premises. Most bars in big cities use it.”
“Does this bar arrange angle shots? Those three guys over there keep harassing me whenever I order a drink.”
Origin
The expression ‘angel shot’ originates from the “Ask for Angela” media campaign started in Lincolnshire, England. The campaign focused on providing women with a safe environment in public. If a woman thought she was at risk of sexual assault, she would ask the bartender to ‘ask for Angela,’ as a codeword to call a cab or rideshare and assist the woman with safely exiting the situation discreetly.
The “Ask for Angela” campaign in the US goes by " the angle shot.” There are three variations of the angel shot that you can order with the bartender at your establishment or venue.
- Neat or straight up – The woman requires an escort to her car.
- On ice – The bartender should order the woman a cab or rideshare.
- With lime or a twist – Call the police.
Phrases Similar to Angel Shot
- Unknown.
Phrases Opposite to Angel Shot
- Unknown.
What is the Correct Saying?
- Angel shot.
Ways People May Say Angel Shot Incorrectly
Some people may confuse themselves with the three types of angel shots. It’s important to understand the difference between them, as they all elicit a different response from security. Don’t use an angel shot maliciously, as it could get you in trouble with the management if the patron is sober and rational.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Angel Shot
You can use the expression ‘angel shot’ if you’re a woman at a nightclub or bar. If you feel a patron is harassing you, approach the bar and use the code outlined above to let the bartender know about your situation. The bartender will arrange for security to remove the threatening patron from the premises.
The angle shot suits situations where someone is harassing you, and you can’t get them to stop with a simple request. The angle shot helps women feel secure in establishments, and it’s common in cities like Miami, New York, and Los Angeles.