firing line

USAGE SUMMARY

"firing line" is a valid phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe a difficult situation where an individual is being put under intense scrutiny or criticism. For example, "The CEO was in the firing line during the shareholders meeting, having to answer difficult questions about the company's restructuring plans."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That puts MFIs in the firing line.

The Economist

Italy is again in the firing line.

The Economist

HSBC was already in the firing line.

The Guardian - Business

Women, too, are in the firing line.

The Guardian - Opinion

Concerts are now in the firing line.

The Guardian

"See you on the firing line".

The New York Times

That brings Bairstow into the firing line.

The Guardian - Sport

Instead, the poorest schools are in the firing line.

The Guardian

Koolhaas is directly in the firing line in this respect.

The Guardian - Arts

But the real action was up on the firing line.

The New York Times - Magazine

In the firing line now are more than individual users.

The Guardian - Money

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "firing line" to vividly describe situations where someone is under intense questioning, criticism, or attack. It's particularly effective when conveying a sense of vulnerability or exposure.

Common error

Avoid using "firing line" when you mean "line of fire". "Line of fire" refers to the path of a projectile, while "firing line" describes a metaphorical position of intense scrutiny.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "firing line" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often used as a prepositional complement (e.g., "in the firing line"). It figuratively describes a position of vulnerability, where one is exposed to intense criticism or attack. Ludwig AI confirms its validity.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "firing line" is a common idiom used to describe a situation where someone or something is under intense scrutiny, criticism, or attack. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and numerous examples from reputable sources, such as The Guardian, The New York Times, and The Economist, illustrate its usage across various contexts, primarily within news and media. While the phrase is grammatically correct and widely understood, it's important to distinguish it from "line of fire", which refers to a physical trajectory of a projectile. Alternative phrases like "under scrutiny" or "in the hot seat" can be used to convey similar meanings, depending on the specific nuance desired. Using "firing line" effectively adds a vivid and impactful description to situations involving pressure and vulnerability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

In the hot seat

This alternative suggests a difficult and uncomfortable position, often involving questioning.

Bearing the brunt

This alternative suggests absorbing the main force of an impact or attack.

Under scrutiny

This alternative is a general term for being watched and examined closely.

Subject to intense pressure

This alternative emphasizes the stress and strain being experienced.

Facing criticism

This alternative focuses specifically on negative feedback and disapproval.

At the forefront of controversy

This alternative highlights the controversial nature of the situation.

Under attack

This alternative conveys a sense of being actively targeted or opposed.

In harm's way

This alternative indicates exposure to danger or risk.

In a vulnerable position

This alternative highlights the weakness and susceptibility of the person or thing being targeted.

On the receiving end

This alternative describes being the target or recipient of something unpleasant.

FAQs

How can I use "firing line" in a sentence?

You can use "firing line" to describe a situation where someone is under intense scrutiny or criticism, such as, "The CEO was in the "firing line" during the shareholders' meeting".

What does it mean to be in the "firing line"?

Being in the "firing line" means you are the target of intense questioning, criticism, or attack, often in a public or professional setting.

What can I say instead of "firing line"?

You can use alternatives like "under scrutiny", "in the hot seat", or "facing criticism" depending on the context.

What is the difference between "firing line" and "line of fire"?

"Firing line" refers to a metaphorical position of being under attack or intense scrutiny, while "line of fire" refers to the actual path of a projectile or the area where one might be shot. The earlier version referred to "firing line" where "line of fire" was meant.