under fire
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective phrase: Being subjected to attack, criticism, or intense scrutiny.
Usage
This phrase describes a person, group, or thing that is the target of hostile actions or severe disapproval. It is commonly used in both literal military contexts and figurative situations involving criticism.
Examples
- The soldiers were under fire from enemy positions for several hours.
- The company's CEO is under fire from shareholders after the disappointing financial report.
- The new policy came under fire from opposition parties and the media.
- The research methodology has been under fire from other scientists in the field.
Advanced Usage
- To be under heavy fire: To be subjected to particularly intense attack or criticism.
- The government is under heavy fire for its handling of the crisis.
- To come under fire: To begin to be subjected to attack or criticism.
- His comments immediately came under fire on social media.
Variants and Related Words
- Under attack: A closely related phrase with a similar meaning, often used interchangeably in figurative contexts.
- The mayor's reputation is under attack.
- Under scrutiny: Being examined or observed closely and critically, but without the inherent hostility of "under fire."
- The contract is under scrutiny by legal experts.
Synonyms
- Under attack
- Being criticized
- Under scrutiny
- In the hot seat (idiomatic)
- In the line of fire (idiomatic)
Related Idioms
- In the line of fire: Literally, in the path of gunfire. Figuratively, in a position to bear the brunt of an attack or criticism.
- As the spokesperson, she was directly in the line of fire during the press conference.
- In the crosshairs: Being targeted or singled out for attack or criticism.
- The controversial author found himself in the crosshairs of public opinion.
Adjective
- subjected to enemy attack or censure
- an official under fire for mismanagement