flak catcher

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Word: Flak Catcher

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: A "flak catcher" is a person, usually a spokesperson or public relations expert, who is skilled at handling criticism or negative feedback. They can turn potentially damaging situations into positive opportunities for their employer or organization.

Usage Instructions:

• Use "flak catcher" when referring to someone who is particularly effective at managing criticism, especially in a professional context.
• It’s often used in discussions about public relations, media, or politics.

Example:

1. "After the controversial decision, the company hired a flak catcher to manage public relations and soften the backlash."
2. "As the flak catcher for the mayor, she was able to deflect the negative press and highlight the positive changes in the community."

Advanced Usage:

• In a corporate setting, a flak catcher may be responsible for crafting messages that mitigate any negative impact from criticism.
• In politics, a flak catcher could be a press secretary or communications director who faces reporters and the public to defend their boss's decisions.

Word Variants:

• Flak (noun): Criticism or negative feedback.
• Catching flak (phrase): Receiving criticism.

Different Meanings:

• "Flak" can also refer to anti-aircraft artillery in a military context, but when combined with "catcher," it specifically relates to handling criticism.
• In slang, "catching flak" means facing disapproval or backlash.

Synonyms:

• Spokesperson
• Public relations expert
• Communications director
• Damage control specialist

Related Idioms:

• Take the heat: To receive criticism or blame for something.
• Deflect criticism: To redirect or avoid criticism directed at someone.

Phrasal Verbs:

• Talk down: To make something seem less important or serious, often used in the context of addressing criticism.
• Smooth over: To make a situation less serious or to ease tensions, often through communication.

Academic

Noun

1. a slick spokesperson who can turn any criticism to the advantage of their employer

Synonyms

• flak
• flack catcher
• flack