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in the line of fire

ADJECTIVE
unprotected
Synonyms
STRONGEST
endangered exposed helpless powerless unarmed unguarded unsafe vulnerable
WEAK
caught indefensible like a sitting duck naked open out on a limb pregnable weak wide open
Antonyms
STRONGEST
able guarded protected safe secure strong

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Likewise alternative asset managers were also in the line of fire to start the week, given concerns about their potential exposure to software companies through private-credit funds.

From Barron's • Feb. 24, 2026

They needed work, even if they were putting themselves in the line of fire.

From Slate • Oct. 27, 2025

Sydney Sweeney is the latest female celebrity in the line of fire of online fanboys and trolls.

From Salon • Dec. 16, 2024

Anthony Richardson looked better for Indianapolis on Sunday, but he puts himself too much in the line of fire.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 21, 2024

He’d be deserting in the line of fire.

From "Bridge to Terabithia" by Katherine Paterson