in the limelight
/ɪn ðə ˈlaɪmlaɪt/
Meaning
This expression means to be the center of public attention, interest, or notoriety. It originates from old theater lighting that used lime to create a bright spotlight. It is often used when discussing celebrities, politicians, or anyone suddenly getting a lot of media focus.
Examples
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After winning the Oscar, she found herself constantly in the limelight.
After winning the Oscar, she found herself constantly in the limelight.
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He prefers working behind the scenes rather than being in the limelight.
He prefers working behind the scenes rather than being in the limelight.
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The scandal put the CEO in the limelight for all the wrong reasons.
The scandal put the CEO in the limelight for all the wrong reasons.
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Growing up in the limelight can be very difficult for child actors.
Growing up in the limelight can be very difficult for child actors.
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She stepped back from the limelight to focus on her mental health.
She stepped back from the limelight to focus on her mental health.
Common Mistakes
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✗ She is under the limelight.
✓ She is in the limelight.
The correct preposition to use with 'limelight' is 'in', not 'under' or 'on'.
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✗ He loves being in the lime light.
✓ He loves being in the limelight.
'Limelight' is written as a single compound word, not as two separate words.
Related Expressions
Practice
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The young politician was suddenly thrust ___ after her speech went viral.
💡 Think of being center stage under a spotlight.
Show answer
in the limelight
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Some people crave being ___ while others value their privacy.
💡 Public attention.
Show answer
in the limelight