List of Idioms and Phrases from The HINDU editorial: “Dangerous skies: On the crash of an Azerbaijani airliner”

List of Idioms and Phrases from The HINDU editorial: “Dangerous skies: On the crash of an Azerbaijani airliner”

The article discusses the Azerbaijani airliner crash over Russian airspace, an incident that has brought into focus the growing risks of civilian aircraft operating near conflict zones. The plane’s deviation occurred as the crow flies, covering significant ground before the accident.

While Russian authorities acknowledged the incident, President Putin stopped short of admitting direct responsibility, framing the crash as collateral damage from anti-drone operations. The rising use of drones in warfare has taken centrestage, reflecting their evolving role in modern conflicts. The article further warns that continued hostilities risk dragging more nations into the conflict, complicating regional stability.

1.  Brought into focus

• Meaning: To draw attention to or highlight an issue.
• Example: "The crash of the Azerbaijani airliner has brought into focus the risks of flying over conflict zones."

2.  As the crow flies

• Meaning: The shortest distance between two points, measured in a straight line.
• Example: "The damaged plane crossed 300 miles as the crow flies after the incident."

3.  Stopped short of

• Meaning: To almost do something but not quite follow through.
• Example: "President Putin’s apology stopped short of admitting Russian involvement in the crash."

4.  Collateral damage

• Meaning: Unintended damage or casualties, often affecting civilians during military operations.
• Example: "The crash was described as collateral damage from Russian anti-drone activity."

5.  Centrestage

• Meaning: In the most prominent or important position.
• Example: "Drones and microdrones have taken centrestage in modern warfare."

6.  Pulled into the conflict

• Meaning: To be drawn or involved in a dispute or war.
• Example: "More regional actors risk being pulled into the conflict if tensions escalate."