English Idioms. Looking down the barrel.

 "Looking down the barrel" is an idiomatic expression that typically refers to someone being in a situation where they are facing a direct threat or imminent danger. 

The phrase originated from the visual perspective of looking down the barrel of a firearm, which is a position that suggests one is at the receiving end of potential harm. It conveys a sense of vulnerability, as if someone is staring directly into a dangerous situation. 

For example, if someone says, "I'm looking down the barrel of bankruptcy," it means they are facing a severe financial crisis or are in imminent danger of going bankrupt. Similarly, if someone says, "He's looking down the barrel of a gun," it means that person is facing a significant threat to their safety or well-being.