Idioms and phrases from THE HINDU editorial “Hollow middle: On the regional election results in Germany”

Idioms and phrases from THE HINDU editorial “Hollow middle: On the regional election results in Germany”

The recent regional elections in Germany captured attention as the rise of far-right parties continues to shape the political landscape. A dark horse in the elections, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party, surprised many by gaining more support than expected. This reflects growing anti-establishment sentiment across the country, with voters increasingly disillusioned with mainstream politics.

The AfD’s strong performance is expected to play a critical role in future coalitions, as established parties find themselves coming under stress trying to maintain dominance. Despite being in a state of political untouchability, with other parties refusing to ally with them, the AfD’s push towards the Right has caused concern among political observers.

The economic downturn and recent immigration crisis have taken a toll on public opinion, further fueling discontent. Memories are still fresh of the political instability caused by similar events in the past, and there is a concerted effort by traditional parties to stall the rise of far-right extremism.

1)  Captured attention

• Meaning: To attract or hold interest.

• Example: "The recent announcement captured the attention of investors worldwide."

2)  Dark horse

• Meaning: A candidate or competitor about whom little is known but who unexpectedly wins or succeeds.

• Example: "In the election, the independent candidate turned out to be the dark horse, winning a surprising number of votes."

3)  Anti-establishment sentiment

• Meaning: Opposition to or distrust of the established political, economic, or social order.

• Example: "The protestors voiced strong anti-establishment sentiments, demanding significant political reforms."

4)  Play a critical role

• Meaning: To be an essential or crucial part of something.

• Example: "The new regulations will play a critical role in improving the company's environmental policies."

 5) Come under stress

• Meaning: To experience strain or pressure, often to the point of breaking or changing.

• Example: "The team’s performance came under stress as the deadline approached."

 6) Political untouchability

• Meaning: The refusal of political parties to collaborate with a specific group or party, considering them unacceptable for alliances.

• Example: "The controversial party remains in a state of political untouchability, as no other party is willing to form a coalition with it."

7)  Push towards the Right

• Meaning: A shift in political ideology or policies towards conservative or right-wing positions.

• Example: "The government's recent reforms are seen as a push towards the Right, favoring conservative values."

8)  Take a toll

• Meaning: To cause harm or damage over time.

• Example: "The long working hours began to take a toll on his health."

9)  Memories are still fresh

• Meaning: Refers to an event that happened in the past but is still remembered clearly and with strong emotions.

• Example: "Even after decades, the memories of the war are still fresh in the minds of the survivors."

10)  Stalling the rise

• Meaning: To slow down or prevent the growth or progress of something.

• Example: "The government's new policies were aimed at stalling the rise of unemployment."