under fire

Friendly

The phrase "under fire" is an idiom that means to be criticized or attacked, either verbally or in a military context. It can refer to someone facing harsh criticism from others or to a military situation where someone is being shot at by enemies.

Simple Explanation:

• Basic Meaning: When someone is "under fire," they are being attacked or criticized.
• Example: If a politician makes a mistake, the news media might say they are "under fire" for their decision.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "under fire" when talking about someone who is facing criticism in any situation, such as in politics, work, or even in personal life.
• It can also be used in military contexts when people are literally being fired upon.

Examples:

1. In Criticism: "The CEO was under fire for the company's poor performance."
2. In a Military Context: "The soldiers were under fire during the battle."

Advanced Usage:

• In a more complex sentence, you might say, "After the controversial vote, the senator found himself under fire from both his opponents and his supporters."
• This shows that criticism can come from different sides, not just one.

Word Variants:

• Underfire: Sometimes written as one word, though "under fire" is more common.
• Underfire can also refer to a situation where someone is being harshly criticized.

Different Meanings:

• While "under fire" typically means facing criticism or an attack, in a more literal military sense, it can mean being in a dangerous situation where one is being shot at.

Synonyms:

• Criticized: To be spoken against.
• Attacked: To be subjected to aggression or criticism.
• Assailed: To be attacked vigorously.

Related Idioms:

• In the hot seat: This means being in a difficult or uncomfortable situation where one faces criticism.
• Taking heat: This means receiving criticism or blame.

Phrasal Verbs:

• Fire back: This means to respond to criticism or an attack with a counter-argument or defense.
• Stand firm: This means to maintain one's position despite criticism or pressure.

Conclusion:

"Under fire" is a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts to describe someone facing criticism or a dangerous situation.

Academic

Adjective

1. subjected to enemy attack or censure
   • an official under fire for mismanagement

Synonyms

• under attack
• under fire