in the public eye

Idioms and Phrases

Under the attention and scrutiny of the public, as in The rock star's activities were very much in the public eye . This usage, which is similar to in the limelight , dates from the late 1800s. It should not be confused with the similar-sounding in the eyes of the public , which means “in the opinion or views of the general public” (as in In the eyes of the public the mayor was guilty of perjury ). Also see in the eye of , def. 2.

Example Sentences

“Going through an ugly divorce while I was in the public eye as a Christian artist — rocks would have been thrown at me,” he says.

From Los Angeles Times

Not so long ago, 23andMe was in the public eye for all the right reasons.

From BBC

Trump also may have the upper hand among some swing voters in Michigan because he is more well known than Harris after four years in office and years in the public eye, said Mr Hanson.

From BBC

Trump now has a seven-day window to challenge the release of papers, which could further incriminate him in the public eye as the 2024 election enters its closing stretch.

From Salon

In the funerary events that ensued, Mrs. Kennedy gamely planned ceremonies and received well-wishers in the public eye, showing unabated grief only in private.

From Salon

Related Words

• acclaimed
• eminent
• illustrious
• important
• infamous
• known
• leading
• notable
• noted
• notorious
• outstanding
• popular
• prominent
• recognized
• renowned
• reputable