| 词组 | third rail |
| 释义 | third rail noun 1 a bill, especially in a restaurant. A term of the 1940s music industry US, 1950. 2 an extremely controversial political issue. Like the third rail in an electric railway system, it is to be avoided US, 2000. 3 inexpensive, potent alcohol US, 1962 third railAn issue or topic that is so controversial that it would immediately damage or destroy one's political career or credibility. An allusion to the electrified rail that powers electric railway systems, its figurative sense is almost exclusively used in relation to politics. Primarily heard in US. I wouldn't even bring it up—trying to withdraw people's social security benefits has long been the third rail of politics. Any talk of dismantling or reforming the current healthcare system has been a political third rail for the last two decades or so. third railSomething that is dangerous to tamper with, as in Anything concerning veterans is a political third rail. This term alludes to the rail that supplies the high voltage powering an electric train, so called since 1918. On the other hand, grab hold of the third rail means "become energized." Both shifts from the original meaning date from the late 1900s. |
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