line

A line is a continuous distance from one point to another. Some lines are straight. Some lines are crooked (not straight). Lines can take many different forms.

In these examples, the word "line" is a noun:

They’re standing in line.
At the end of a race, runners cross a finish line.
There’s a fish at the end of this line.
He had some very funny lines in his speech.
Actors have to remember their lines. (lines: memorized words spoken when acting)

The word "line" is often used as a verb and as a noun when organizing things or people:

• Line up.
• Get in line.
• Try to stay in line.
• It’s not polite to cut in line.
• Customers form a line when waiting for service.
• Write your name on the line.
• Don’t color or make marks outside of the lines.

There are many expressions that include the word "line."

• He’s getting out of line. (He’s causing trouble.)
• Don’t step over the line. (Don’t do that; otherwise, you will face consequences.)
• They have a lot on the line. (They are taking a risk.)
• Lay it on the line. (Be honest.)
• She’s just giving you a line. (She’s not being sincere or honest.)
• This is in line with what we were thinking. (in line = closely matching)
• There’s a fine line between those two things. (fine line = a small difference)
• The President drew a line in the sand. (a line in the sand = a situation that can’t continue without a consequence or punishment.)
• They’ve gone over the line. (Their behavior was really bad.)
• It’s the end of the line. (Something is over–a project, a trip, a life.)

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January 14, 2019