- Meaning
- This idiom describes being unintentionally harmed or involved in a conflict or dispute between others. It suggests being an innocent bystander caught in a dangerous or contentious situation, often used in contexts of arguments, wars, or professional rivalries.
- Origin
- The phrase comes from 19th-century military terminology, referring to soldiers trapped between opposing lines of gunfire. It appeared in English by the 1890s, with an 1894 *Times* article using ‘caught in the crossfire’ during a battle description. By the early 20th century, it was metaphorical, describing civilians or neutrals affected by disputes, as seen in journalism during World War I. Its vivid imagery ensured its use in political and social contexts.
- Variants
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- Caught in the crossfire
- In the crossfire
- Examples
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- She was caught in the crossfire of her parents’ bitter divorce, forced to choose sides.
- The small business was caught in the crossfire of the trade war, losing profits.
- In the crossfire of the boardroom argument, the junior employee took the blame.
- Civilians were caught in the crossfire during the city’s gang violence.
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