third rail

简明释义

导电轨

英英释义

A third rail is a rail used to provide electric power to a train or tram, typically located alongside the two main tracks.

第三轨是用于为火车或电车提供电力的轨道,通常位于两条主轨道的旁边。

Metaphorically, the term 'third rail' refers to a controversial issue or topic that is considered dangerous or politically sensitive, often avoided in discussion.

在隐喻上,‘第三轨’一词指的是一个有争议的问题或主题,被认为是危险或政治敏感的,通常在讨论中被避免。

例句

1.The issue of immigration reform is often considered a third rail in American politics.

移民改革问题在美国政治中通常被视为一个第三轨

2.In many companies, employee pay is a third rail topic that no one wants to discuss openly.

在许多公司中,员工薪酬是一个没人愿意公开讨论的第三轨话题。

3.Discussing climate change can often feel like touching the third rail of politics.

讨论气候变化往往让人感觉像是在触碰政治的第三轨

4.Talking about race relations can be a third rail for many politicians.

谈论种族关系对许多政治家来说可能是一个第三轨

5.In education, discussions about standardized testing are often seen as the third rail of reform.

在教育领域,关于标准化测试的讨论通常被视为改革的第三轨

作文

In many discussions about politics and social issues, the term third rail is often used to describe topics that are highly controversial and politically sensitive. Just as a third rail in a subway system carries high voltage electricity, making it dangerous to touch, certain subjects in public discourse can be similarly hazardous to one's political career or social standing. The idea behind the third rail is that these topics are so charged with emotion and disagreement that they can lead to severe backlash for anyone who dares to address them openly. For instance, in the United States, issues like immigration reform, gun control, and healthcare often serve as the third rail of political debate. Politicians may avoid these subjects altogether or tread carefully around them because they know that taking a firm stance could alienate significant portions of their voter base. This avoidance can lead to a lack of meaningful discussion and progress on these critical issues, as leaders fear the consequences of engaging with them directly.The concept of the third rail is not limited to politics; it can also apply to social conversations. Topics such as race, gender identity, and religion can evoke strong feelings and differing opinions, making people hesitant to engage in dialogue. When individuals encounter a third rail issue, they may choose to remain silent rather than risk offending others or being misunderstood. This silence can perpetuate misunderstandings and prevent the resolution of underlying problems.However, avoiding the third rail can have negative consequences. It allows misinformation and stereotypes to flourish unchecked, as people are not willing to confront these issues head-on. Open discussions about third rail topics can lead to greater understanding and empathy among individuals with differing viewpoints. For example, when people engage in conversations about race, they may uncover shared experiences and find common ground, which can help bridge divides.To effectively navigate the challenges posed by third rail issues, it is essential to foster an environment where open dialogue is encouraged. This means creating safe spaces where individuals feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and feelings without fear of retribution. Encouraging active listening and respectful debate can help dismantle the barriers that often surround third rail topics.In conclusion, while the third rail represents a source of danger in both political and social contexts, it also offers an opportunity for growth and understanding. By confronting these sensitive issues rather than avoiding them, we can work towards finding solutions and fostering a more inclusive society. Engaging with the third rail may be uncomfortable, but it is often necessary for progress. The key lies in approaching these discussions with empathy, openness, and a willingness to listen, ultimately transforming the third rail from a source of danger into a pathway for meaningful change.

在许多关于政治和社会问题的讨论中,术语第三轨道常常用来描述那些高度争议和政治敏感的话题。就像地铁系统中的第三轨道承载着高电压,使其触碰起来非常危险,某些公共话语中的主题也可能同样对一个人的政治生涯或社会地位造成危害。第三轨道的概念是,这些话题充满情感和分歧,以至于任何敢于公开讨论它们的人都可能遭遇严重的反弹。例如,在美国,移民改革、枪支管制和医疗保健等问题常常作为政治辩论的第三轨道。政治家可能会完全避免这些主题,或者小心翼翼地绕过它们,因为他们知道,采取明确立场可能会疏远相当一部分选民。这种回避可能导致对这些关键问题缺乏有意义的讨论和进展,因为领导者害怕直接参与的后果。第三轨道的概念不仅限于政治;它也可以适用于社会对话。种族、性别认同和宗教等话题可能引发强烈的情感和不同的观点,使人们不愿参与对话。当个人遇到第三轨道问题时,他们可能选择保持沉默,而不是冒犯他人或被误解。这种沉默可能助长误解,并阻止潜在问题的解决。然而,回避第三轨道可能会产生负面后果。它允许错误信息和刻板印象在没有检查的情况下滋生,因为人们不愿意直面这些问题。对第三轨道话题进行开放讨论可以促进人们之间更大的理解和同理心。例如,当人们参与有关种族的对话时,他们可能会发现共同的经历并找到共同点,这可以帮助弥合分歧。为了有效应对第三轨道问题所带来的挑战,营造一个鼓励开放对话的环境至关重要。这意味着创建安全空间,让个人感到舒适,可以分享他们的想法和感受,而不必担心受到报复。鼓励积极倾听和尊重辩论可以帮助拆除通常围绕第三轨道话题的障碍。总之,尽管第三轨道在政治和社会背景中代表着一种危险来源,但它也为成长和理解提供了机会。通过面对这些敏感问题而不是回避它们,我们可以努力寻找解决方案,并促进一个更具包容性的社会。与第三轨道的互动可能会让人感到不适,但往往是进步所必需的。关键在于以同理心、开放态度和倾听的意愿来接近这些讨论,最终将第三轨道从危险源转变为有意义变革的途径。