The phrase "puts on hotseat" means to subject someone to intense scrutiny or pressure, usually in a public setting such as a trial or hearing. There are several synonyms for this phrase, including "grills," "interrogates," "cross-examines," "examines closely," "puts to the test," "puts on trial," and "confronts." These terms all convey the idea of a challenging and potentially uncomfortable situation where the person in question is being questioned and evaluated. Whether in a legal or professional context, the phrase "puts on hotseat" and its synonyms all indicate that the person in question is under scrutiny and their responses or actions are being judged.