firing line

American  

noun

1. Military.

   1. the positions at which troops are stationed to fire upon the enemy or targets.

   2. the troops firing from this line.

2. the forefront of any action or activity, especially a controversy.

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firing line British  

noun

1. military

   1. the positions from which fire is delivered

   2. the soldiers occupying these positions

2. the leading or most advanced position in an activity

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Etymology

Origin of firing line

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

Sentiment in Asia was dragged Tuesday, however, by renewed concerns about the impact of artificial intelligence on the tech sector, with software firms again in the firing line.

From Barron's

When he departed in September, it was welcomed by the majority but left Frank more in the firing line - and with a shield removed.

From BBC

With just one episode to go, Rachel was finally in the firing line, alongside James, despite strenuous efforts that led him to collapse and vomit during that day's mission.

From BBC

But the stark contrast between near-record profits and sharp rate hikes has put the industry in the regulatory firing line.

From The Wall Street Journal

They could be outside of the firing line in this most recent trade flare-up.

From Barron's