What does “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” mean?
"In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)" means being targeted or under close scrutiny.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The company is in the crosshairs of a regulatory investigation.
Example
The politician found himself in the crosshairs of the media after his controversial statement.
Example
The celebrity's personal life is constantly in the crosshairs of the paparazzi
Is “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” effectively in context?
You can use "In the Crosshairs" to describe a situation where someone or something is being targeted or closely watched. It implies that the person or thing is under intense scrutiny or facing potential consequences. For example, if a company is being investigated by regulatory authorities, you might say, 'The company is "in the crosshairs" of a regulatory investigation.'
- 1Business
The company is in the crosshairs of a regulatory investigation.
- 2Politics
The politician found himself in the crosshairs of the media after his controversial statement.
- 3Celebrity
The celebrity's personal life is constantly in the crosshairs of the paparazzi.
Similar phrases to “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)”:
Being closely observed or scrutinized
Example
The scientist's research is under the microscope of peer review.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” come from?
The origin of the phrase "In the Crosshairs" is derived from the practice of using crosshairs in targeting devices, such as telescopic sights or surveying instruments. The crosshairs are intersecting lines that help aim at a specific target. Therefore, being 'in the crosshairs' means being targeted or under close scrutiny.
Is “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "In the Crosshairs" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is frequently used in news articles, discussions about politics and business, and when talking about public figures or celebrities.
What tone does “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” have?
"In the Crosshairs" conveys a tone of intensity and scrutiny. It suggests that someone or something is under close observation or facing potential consequences.
Can “In the Crosshairs (Cross Hairs)” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "In the Crosshairs" is commonly used in both informal and formal settings. It is often used in news reports, business discussions, and political contexts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The company is "in the crosshairs" of a regulatory investigation.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They're "in the crosshairs" now!' to imply that someone or something is being targeted or closely watched.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- on thin ice
- under the radar
- in the hot seat
- under the microscope
- under scrutiny
- in the spotlight
Antonyms
- under the radar
- in the clear
- off the radar
- out of sight
- out of danger
