in the crosshairs

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in the crosshairs (idiom)
/ɪn ðə ˈkrɔsˌhɛrz/

The idiom “in the crosshairs” refers to being the main focus of someone’s attention or aim, usually with a risk of harm, criticism, or other unwanted consequences.

Variants

• caught in the crosshairs
• in someone’s crosshairs

Meaning

1. Targeted for attack, criticism, or intense focus.
2. In a position where one might receive severe criticism.
3. Under threat of harm, punishment, or removal.
4. In a critical position where someone’s actions or future are being closely watched or examined.

Synonyms: targeted; marked; threatened; endangered; scrutinized; attacked.

Example Sentences

1. The politician is in the crosshairs of a major corruption investigation.
2. She was caught in the crosshairs of angry neighbors after the dispute.
3. Environmental regulations have put the coal industry in the crosshairs.
4. After the scandal, the CEO found himself in the crosshairs of the media.
5. The company owner was caught in the crosshairs during the fight over new rules.

Origin and History

The phrase in the crosshairs is a relatively modern idiom, originating from the development of optical devices such as surveying instruments and rifle scopes. The earliest known usage dates to the mid‑19th century, referring to being the exact focus or target of something. In these devices, the literal crosshairs—fine lines or wires in the focal plane—mark the precise aiming point. This visual of being exactly aligned with a target forms the basis of the idiom’s figurative meaning.

Early Appearances in Print

The earliest printed record appears in an 1861 edition of The Daily Exchange newspaper, used in a literal sense to describe a surveying instrument. The article referred to “the vertical and horizontal wires, or cross‑hairs, of the instrument,” explaining their role in obtaining accurate measurements. Over the decades, the term gradually evolved from its technical usage to a figurative one, applied to situations where someone or something is the main focus or target.

Theories on Its Evolution

The figurative meaning likely developed from two key fields: surveying and marksmanship. In surveying, crosshairs help pinpoint an exact location with precision. In marksmanship, they enable a shooter to aim precisely at a target. Both uses involve concentrated focus on a single point—mirroring the idiom’s modern sense of being targeted.

Many believe the phrase became more widely recognized during the World Wars, when advanced aerial combat and the use of bombsights and riflescopes brought crosshairs into public awareness. While military usage may have popularized the term, its figurative sense was already emerging beforehand. Its spread into everyday speech was likely gradual, as the technology became more common and the visual of crosshairs grew familiar.

Another possible influence comes from older idioms with similar meanings, such as in the line of fire. However, in the crosshairs conveys a more precise and deliberate sense of targeting—suggesting not only danger but also intentional focus.

Country of Origin

The phrase originated in the United States, first appearing in mid‑19th‑century American technical writing. From there, it spread internationally through American English, especially via military and media usage.

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Last update: August 1, 2025 1:11 AM