Word: Fair Game
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: "Fair game" refers to a person or thing that is considered acceptable to attack, criticize, or exploit. It often suggests that this person or thing is vulnerable or an easy target, especially in situations where they might not be able to defend themselves.
Usage Instructions:
"Fair game" is typically used in contexts where someone or something is being targeted, often in a negative or hostile manner.
It can be used in both serious situations, like crime or bullying, or in lighter situations, such as friendly teasing among friends.
Examples:
Serious Context: "After the scandal broke, the politician became fair game for the media, who started digging into his past."
Light Context: "At the party, everyone was fair game for a little light-hearted joking."
Advanced Usage:
In discussions about ethics or morality, "fair game" can imply a debate about whether it is right to target someone in a specific way. For example, "While some believe that celebrities are fair game for gossip, others argue that everyone deserves privacy."
Word Variants:
Fairness (noun): The quality of being fair, just, or impartial.
Fair (adjective): Treating people equally without favoritism or discrimination.
Different Meaning:
While "fair game" typically has a negative connotation, in a more general sense, it can also refer to something that is open for use or competition, like in sports or games. For example, "In this game, all players are fair game—everyone can be challenged."
Synonyms:
Target
Victim
Prey
Mark
Open season (informal)
Related Idioms:
Phrasal Verbs:
There aren’t specific phrasal verbs directly related to "fair game," but you might encounter phrases like "go after" (to pursue or target someone) or "pick on" (to bully or criticize someone).
Summary:
In summary, "fair game" is a term used to describe someone or something that can be targeted, often without consideration for their feelings or circumstances.