shelling
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shelling
Intensive and repeated firing at a target with firearms, especially with artillery or machine guns.
Die Festung geriet unter schweren Beschuss durch die feindliche Armee.
The fortress came under heavy shelling by the enemy army.
to come/be under fire
In a figurative sense, to be the target of harsh criticism, many questions, or verbal attacks.
Nach der Veröffentlichung des Berichts stand der Politiker unter ständigem Beschuss der Medien.
After the report was published, the politician was under constant fire from the media.
'Der Beschuss' (shelling) is the noun corresponding to the verb 'beschießen' (to fire on/shell). The prefix 'be-' expresses that the action, 'das Schießen' (shooting/firing), is directed at a specific target.
Die Soldaten beschossen die feindliche Stellung.
The soldiers fired on the enemy position.
The figurative meaning is used almost exclusively in the fixed expressions 'unter Beschuss stehen' (to be under fire) or 'unter Beschuss geraten' (to come under fire). These mean that someone is being strongly criticized.
Wegen seiner Entscheidung geriet der Minister unter heftigen Beschuss.
Because of his decision, the minister came under heavy fire.
In a military context, 'Beschuss' (shelling) is often combined with adjectives such as 'schwer' (heavy), 'heftig' (intense), or 'ständig' (constant). A typical preposition is 'unter' (under), as in 'unter Beschuss' (under shelling/fire).
Die Stadt lag tagelang unter ständigem Beschuss.
The city was under constant shelling for days.
criticism / review
Kritik refers to the negative assessment and the errors it points out. Figuratively, Beschuss describes an intense attack involving harsh criticism, many questions, or verbal attacks. Kritik fits the content of the complaint; Beschuss fits situations where the intensity and duration of the attacks are the focus.
Die Ministerin stand wegen ihrer Entscheidung tagelang unter heftigem Beschuss.
The minister was under heavy fire for days because of her decision.
Die Ministerin geriet wegen ihrer Entscheidung in die Kritik.
The minister came under criticism for her decision.
