firing line
The vanguard of an activity.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“The new manager is in the firing line for the recent project delays.”
“As the lead spokesperson for the company, she is always in the firing line whenever a public scandal occurs.”
“Placed directly in the firing line of the board's intense scrutiny, the director had to defend the controversial budget cuts during the annual meeting.”
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blur the line
To minimize or erode the distinction between two things.
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bottom line
The summary or result; the most important information.
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bottom of the line
The worst or lowest quality on the market, especially among a range of products.
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bright line
A clear distinction in the context of a legal, moral, ethical, or analytical judgment.
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circular firing squad
A political party or other group experiencing considerable disarray because the members are engaging in internal disputes and mutual recrimination.
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clear one's lines
To clear the ball away from a dangerous position.
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cross the line
To overstep a boundary, rule, or limit; to go too far or do something unacceptable.
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draw a line
To delimit a boundary or border.
Last updated August 10, 2026