hot line

Idioms  

1. A telephone line that gives quick and direct access to a source of information or help. For example, Our state has an AIDS hot line in every county. This term was originally (and is still) used for a direct link between heads of government for use during a crisis, but was quickly extended to wider applications. [1950s]

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Example Sentences

Bob Ross Inc., which sells licensed products, runs the instructor program and generally handles Ross’ legacy, receives around 100 calls each day on its hot line.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2023

Under Sir David's guidance, the two super powers went on to establish the "hot line", a direct communication to ensure tensions could never again reach that level without the two leaders speaking.

From BBC • Oct. 30, 2022

“No hot line for people who are mobility impaired or don’t have reliable access to a car” to carry their recyclables to a central drop-off site.

From Seattle Times • Jan. 14, 2022

It agreed to implement new policies such as creating a 24-hour complaint hot line and publicly posting anti-discrimination policies, according to the EEOC.

From Reuters • Aug. 9, 2019

They set up a toll-free hot line so that Cuban exiles could call in and choose from three scathing messages to send directly to the National Palace, demanding El Li'der’s resignation.

From "Dreaming in Cuban" by Cristina García