cross hair

• Ensemble de fines lignes ou de fils dans l'oculaire d'un instrument optique (tel qu'un microscope, un télescope ou une lunette de visée), servant de point de référence pour viser ou mesurer. Au sens figuré, désigne le fait d'être l'objet de l'attention, de la critique ou d'une attaque.

A set of fine lines or wires in the eyepiece of an optical instrument (such as a microscope, telescope, or gunsight) used as a reference point for aiming or measurement. Figuratively, it refers to being the target of attention, criticism, or attack.

1. Targeting reticleB2formal

   A set of fine lines or wires in the eyepiece of an optical instrument, such as a telescope or gun sight, used for precise aiming.

   réticule de visée

   • The sniper adjusted the cross hair to aim at the target.
   • The telescope's cross hair helped him locate the star.
   • He aligned the cross hair with the center of the bullseye.

2. Focus of attention or criticismB2informal

   A situation where someone or something is the main subject of scrutiny, criticism, or attack.

   être dans la ligne de mire

   • The politician was in the cross hair of the media after the scandal.
   • The company's new policy put it in the cross hair of consumer groups.
   • After the mistake, he found himself in the cross hair of his boss's anger.