Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
caught-in-the-crossfire
idiom
/kɔt ɪn ðə ˈkrɔsˌfaɪər/
Definition
Caught in the crossfire refers to a situation where a person or group becomes unintentionally involved in a conflict, often between two opposing sides.
Examples
- During the protest, many innocent bystanders were caught in the crossfire of the police and the demonstrators.
- She felt caught in the crossfire of her parents’ arguments, not knowing whose side to take.
Meaning
To be caught in a conflict or struggle that one is not directly participating in, typically resulting in harm or negative consequences.
Synonyms
- caught in the middle
- innocent bystander
- collateral damage
