fair game
Học thuậtThân thiện
A journalist investigating corruption became fair game for powerful interests.
Definition
Noun: 1. A legitimate or acceptable target for criticism, attack, or ridicule: A person, group, or thing considered a suitable object for a particular action, often because they are vulnerable, have made themselves open to it, or because social norms permit it. 2. A permissible objective in a hunt or competition: In its original literal sense, an animal that may be legally hunted according to the rules of the sport.
Usage and Examples
As a target for criticism or attack:
- "After the scandal, politicians from both parties considered him fair game."
- "Celebrities know their personal lives are often considered fair game by the tabloid press."
- "Once you post that opinion online, you're making yourself fair game for public debate."
In the context of hunting or games (less common in modern usage):
- "The hunting guide ensured all the birds we pursued were fair game according to the season's regulations."
Advanced Usage and Nuances
- The phrase often carries a connotation of something being "open season" on the target, implying that restrictions or courtesies that might normally apply have been suspended.
- It can be used to justify an action by framing the target as deserving or appropriate for it.
- The term is frequently used in journalism, politics, and public discourse to discuss the boundaries of criticism.
Variants and Related Words
- Fair (adjective): In accordance with the rules or standards; legitimate.
- Game (noun): An activity engaged in for amusement; wild animals hunted for sport or food.
Synonyms
- Target
- Prey
- Victim
- Legitimate target
- Open season (idiomatic)
Antonyms
- Off-limits
- Protected
- Hands-off
- Sacrosanct
Idioms and Common Phrases
- To be fair game: This is the standard idiomatic construction using the term.
- "With that controversial statement, she knew she would be fair game for every talk show host."
- Consider something fair game: To judge or deem something as an acceptable target.
- "The committee considered any proposal submitted before the deadline fair game for discussion."
A journalist investigating corruption became fair game for powerful interests.
Noun
- a person who is the aim of an attack (especially a victim of ridicule or exploitation) by some hostile person or influence
- he fell prey to muggers
- everyone was fair game
- the target of a manhunt