caught in the middle

Idioms  

1. Also, caught in the cross-fire. Between two opposing sides, as in The writers are often caught in the middle between editor and publisher, who are political opponents, or When parents don't get along, the children are often caught in the cross-fire. Long used in military situations, these terms began to be used figuratively in the second half of the 1800s.

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Example Sentences

But staff and patients alike warn that hospitals across the country are caught in the middle of a system, many believe, is close to breaking point.

From BBC

Companies like Howard Miller — a domestic manufacturer that imports certain goods and products — were caught in the middle.

From Salon

Just look at the 6.5 million older adults caught in the “middle market,” unable to afford long-term care but ineligible for Medicaid.

From Salon

Rural bankruptcies have been rising and U.S. farmers have been caught in the middle of the trade spat.

From Barron's

Fans, as usual, are caught in the middle.

From The Wall Street Journal