along this line

USAGE SUMMARY

"along this line" is correct and can be used in written English.
It is used to refer to the continuation of a process, action, thought, or development. For example: "We have decided to pursue further research along this line in order to gain a better understanding of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Reform along this line might even garner bipartisan support.

The New York Times

Once I started along this line, I started seeing parallels everywhere.

The Guardian - Books

Trouble arises along this line where real nations abut a zone of historical non-nationhood.

The New Yorker

Along this line, winter snow and summer melt are supposed to be precisely in balance.

The New Yorker

Cree en el poder del trabajo!" Along this line, Mr. Forrester cited John D. Rockefeller.

The New York Times

In New York, our past experience along this line runs from Aaron Burr to Eliot Spitzer.

The New York Times

Along this line the ground was displaced horizontally as much as 6 metres (20 feet).

Encyclopedia Britannica

For an excellent survey of arguments along this line, see Roy Sorensen's Stanford Encyclopedia article, "Nothingness".

The New York Times

Also PN can help along this line.

Vietnam Journal of Computer Science

Along this line, two general optimization mechanisms are explored.

Neurocomputing

The US has a number of initiatives along this line.

Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "along this line" to clearly indicate that you are expanding upon a previously mentioned idea or direction. This helps maintain coherence and logical flow in your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "along this line" when a simpler transition word like "furthermore", "moreover", or "similarly" would suffice. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and less concise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "along this line" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase that serves as a conjunctive adverbial. As Ludwig AI confirms, it connects ideas by indicating a continuation, progression, or similarity to a preceding statement or action. The examples show its use in introducing related concepts, actions, or developments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

38%

News & Media

22%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "along this line" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate the continuation or progression of a thought, action, or development. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and appropriateness in written English. As demonstrated by numerous examples, including those from The New York Times and scientific journals, the phrase appears frequently in scientific, news, and wiki contexts. Although it is generally neutral, leaning towards professional, it can be used in both formal and informal writing. Remember to use "along this line" judiciously, ensuring that it serves as a clear and effective connector within your text, and consider using alternatives like "in this vein" or "following this path" for variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in this vein

Changes the prepositional phrase but maintains the sense of following a particular course or direction.

following this path

Replaces "line" with "path", emphasizing a journey or progression.

in accordance with this

More formal, suggesting agreement or conformity to a principle or plan.

on this trajectory

Implies a forward movement or development towards a specific outcome.

in this direction

Focuses on physical or conceptual direction, often indicating a course of action.

in the same manner

Highlights similarity in approach or method.

pursuing this course

Emphasizes active pursuit of a particular strategy or plan.

in continuation of this

Formal and emphasizes the sequential nature of the action.

consistent with this approach

Highlights the consistency and alignment with a particular method or strategy.

building upon this idea

Implies further development and expansion of an existing concept.

FAQs

How can I use "along this line" in a sentence?

You can use "along this line" to introduce a related idea or action that follows logically from a previous point. For example, "The company invested in renewable energy. "Along this line", they also implemented energy-efficient practices in their offices."

What are some alternatives to "along this line"?

Alternatives include "in this vein", "following this path", or "in this direction", depending on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "along this line" formal or informal?

"Along this line" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal writing, though more formal alternatives may be preferred in highly academic or professional contexts.

Can "along this line" refer to a physical line or boundary?

Yes, although less common, "along this line" can refer to a physical boundary or demarcation, especially in geographical or technical contexts. However, it's more frequently used to indicate a continuation of thought or action.