a strict line

USAGE SUMMARY

"a strict line" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you are referring to someone taking a firm, unwavering stand on a particular matter. For example, "The principal of the school took a strict line on students' grades and behavior."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

23 human-written examples

"We have a strict line and always have maintained it".

The Guardian

Ofsted takes a strict line with inspecting this.

The Guardian

WHEN I was growing up, there was a strict line between work and life.

The New York Times

But HMRC takes a strict line on how such benefits should be costed and allocated.

The Economist

There is a strict line between what new shoreline was developed for and what it was not.

The New Yorker

With this in mind, it is possible to see why the ECB has taken such a strict line here.

The Guardian - Business

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

37 human-written examples

The New York City Department of Consumer Affairs takes a stricter line.

The New York Times

Perhaps a new head, Father Leo Maidlow Davis, held a stricter line than his predecessor, Dom Antony Sutch, might have done.

The Guardian

The wildcard is that EU leaders have never discussed the issue and often take a stricter line than officials.

The Guardian

The European Union's representative to the talks, Gyorgyi Martin Zanathy, appeared to take a stricter line on enrichment.

The New York Times

The initiatives are a good start, says Mr Simons, but a stricter line on match-fixing and more grassroots support will be needed before Chinese football can become world class.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a strict line", ensure the context clearly indicates what area the strictness applies to (e.g., rules, policies, boundaries).

Common error

Avoid ambiguity by explicitly stating what the "strict line" refers to. Without clear context, it may be unclear what is being strictly enforced.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a strict line" functions as a noun phrase, often used as an object of a verb (e.g., "take a strict line"). Ludwig AI confirms its correct and usable nature in written English, indicating its grammatical validity.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a strict line" is a noun phrase used to describe a firm and uncompromising approach. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is valid for use in the English language. While not highly frequent, it appears in diverse contexts, including news, academic, and scientific domains. When employing this phrase, ensure the area to which the strictness applies is clearly defined. Related phrases include "a firm stance", "a rigid policy", and "a hard line". This phrase is suitable for neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm stance

Emphasizes a determined and unwavering position on an issue.

a rigid policy

Focuses on the inflexibility and unyielding nature of a rule or guideline.

a hard line

Conveys a tough and uncompromising approach.

a firm boundary

Highlights the establishment of clear limits or restrictions.

a tight rein

Suggests a strong control and limitation over something.

an unwavering commitment

Emphasizes the steadfast dedication to a particular course of action.

a zero-tolerance policy

Implies a complete refusal to accept certain behaviors or actions.

a disciplined approach

Highlights the adherence to a set of rules or methods.

a non-negotiable stance

Indicates a position that cannot be altered or compromised.

inflexible rules

Focuses on the absence of flexibility in the regulations being applied.

FAQs

How can I use "a strict line" in a sentence?

You can use "a strict line" to describe a firm or uncompromising approach to something. For example, "The company takes "a strict line on" employee conduct."

What does it mean to take "a strict line"?

Taking "a strict line" means adopting a firm, uncompromising, and often rigid approach or policy regarding a particular matter. It implies little to no leniency or deviation from the established rules or standards.

What can I say instead of "a strict line"?

You can use alternatives like "a firm stance", "a rigid policy", or "a hard line" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "a strict line"?

It's appropriate when describing policies, rules, or behaviors that are enforced without exception or leniency. For instance, "The school maintains "a strict line regarding" attendance."