in the light of something—in consideration of smth.; for the reason given:
- No matter how many tests a scientist conducts, any given hypothesis may have to be thrown out in the light of new evidence.
in the spotlight of something—(predic.) at the center of smth.; getting most attention and interest (also: in the limelight of something):
- While stem cells are in the spotlight of research today, as recently as six years ago, scientists who worked on stem cells toiled in relative obscurity.
Cf.: steal the spotlight from someone —(also: steal the show from someone) do better than another person (in a theatrical production, etc.) and so make oneself the centre of attention:
- Some Democrats fear Clinton will steal the spotlight from Kerry when he needs it most.