# firing line

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/firing-line
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

The vanguard of an activity.

## Examples

- 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.

---

From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.