"Puts in harm's way" is a phrase that refers to an action or situation where someone or something is exposed to danger, peril, or risk. It implies a deliberate or unintentional act of subjecting or placing someone or something in harm's path, potentially resulting in physical harm, injury, or adverse consequences.
When someone "puts in harm's way," they expose a person or object to a hazardous or unsafe environment, circumstance, or activity. This can involve jeopardizing someone's safety, well-being, or health through negligence, recklessness, or intentional misconduct. For instance, an employer might be accused of putting their employees in harm's way if they fail to implement appropriate safety measures in a potentially dangerous workplace.
The phrase can also be used more broadly, beyond physical harm or danger, to describe situations where individuals or groups are at risk of negative outcomes. In a figurative sense, it may refer to exposing someone to emotional, psychological, or reputational harm. For example, spreading rumors or gossip about someone can be seen as putting them in harm's way as it can damage their relationships or professional standing.
Overall, "puts in harm's way" denotes the act of knowingly or unknowingly subjecting someone or something to potentially damaging circumstances, compromising their safety, well-being, or integrity.
