sitting duck
Plural
sitting ducks
1
someone or something that lacks enough defense or protection and is easy to be targeted
The idiom "sitting duck" originated from hunting terminology, particularly in the context of shooting waterfowl. In this usage, it referred to ducks or other birds resting on water, making easy targets for hunters. Today, it is used metaphorically to describe a person or thing that is vulnerable, exposed, or an easy target for harm, criticism, or attack.
- Without air support, the stranded soldiers were like sitting ducks for the enemy's artillery.
- Leaving your car unlocked in this neighborhood is like making it a sitting duck for theft.
- During the storm, the small fishing boat became a sitting duck, unable to navigate the rough waters.
- Her lack of cybersecurity measures made her computer a sitting duck for hackers.
- When you're the only candidate opposing the incumbent with widespread support, you can feel like a sitting duck in the political arena.
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