caught a line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "caught a line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to fishing, communication, or even in a metaphorical sense when referring to receiving a message or information. Example: "While fishing at the lake, I finally caught a line and felt the thrill of a fish tugging at my bait."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Ortiz finally made an out in the sixth, but only when center fielder Shane Robinson caught a line drive that Ortiz scalded.

The New York Times - Sports

He said "buena," or good, when his practice opponent, Julien Benneteau, hit an ace that caught a line, and he smiled, turning his head, when Benneteau later smacked a ball in frustration.

The New York Times

In a stirring seventh inning, Martínez caught a line drive from Casey Kotchman, retired David Eckstein on a 12-pitch at-bat, and then struck out Chone Figgins swinging.

The New York Times - Sports

If you've seen "Hamilton," the Lin-Manuel Miranda musical, or listened to Hamiltunes, you might have caught a line sung by Leslie Odom, Jr., in the role (which he plays with Othello-like gravitas) of Aaron Burr: "My grandfather was a fire and brimstone preacher / but there are things that the homilies and hymns won't teach ya".

The New Yorker

I was admiring the sleazy blues of "Rage of Plastics" in a cab, on the way to the airport, when I caught a line about "the silent spring" — a reference to Rachel Carson's work about the chemical industry and its effects on the environment.

The New Yorker

The 31-year-old apparently also caught a line drive last week.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

The first half looked like being tryless until Jonathan Thomas caught a line-out throw 30 metres from his own line.

The Guardian - Sport

"The neighbors were all out," Ms. Bertram recalled, "ready to catch a line and dock it safely".

The New York Times

I'd catch a line here, a hook there.

Huffington Post

You can feel his love for the game in every move he makes: his swing, his stealing of a base, his leap to catch a line drive, his side arm throw to first.

Huffington Post

Huntington Valley was up, 5-4, in the top of the third when McConnell, playing at shortstop, dove to catch a line drive and then double-up a Huntington Valley runner at second base.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "caught a line" in the context of fishing, ensure the surrounding sentences provide enough detail to avoid ambiguity. For example, specify the type of fish or the fishing method.

Common error

Avoid confusing "caught a line" with similar-sounding phrases like "crossed the line". Ensure the context clearly indicates the intended meaning, such as fishing or receiving communication.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "caught a line" functions primarily as a verb phrase. It typically describes the action of physically catching something, such as a fishing line, or metaphorically receiving a piece of information or communication. Ludwig provides examples of both literal and figurative uses.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "caught a line" is a versatile phrase with multiple meanings, ranging from physically catching a fishing line to receiving information or seizing an opportunity. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. While common, the specific meaning depends heavily on the context, and more precise language may be necessary in formal or technical settings. It appears most frequently in news and media sources, with neutral formality. Related phrases like ""hooked a fish"" or "seized an opportunity" can offer more specific alternatives depending on the intended meaning.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

hooked a fish

Focuses specifically on catching a fish, rather than a general line.

snagged a wire

Implies unintentionally catching a wire or cable.

intercepted a pass

Refers to catching a pass in sports, emphasizing interception.

got a signal

Implies successfully receiving a signal, such as a radio wave.

landed a bargain

Metaphorically relates to seizing a good deal, changing the domain.

received information

Focuses on the act of getting a message or data.

seized an opportunity

Metaphorically relates to taking advantage of a chance.

understood the gist

Implies understanding the main idea, changing the domain.

managed to hear

Implies successfully hearing something, focusing on the auditory sense.

overheard a remark

Implies accidentally hearing a comment or statement.

FAQs

What does it mean to say someone "caught a line"?

The meaning of "caught a line" depends on the context. It can refer to physically catching a fishing line, receiving a communication or message, or even metaphorically seizing an opportunity.

How can I use "caught a line" in a sentence about fishing?

Example: "After waiting patiently for hours, the angler finally "caught a line" and reeled in a large trout."

What are some alternative ways to say "caught a line" in a business context?

Depending on the situation, alternatives could include "received information", "got a signal", or "seized an opportunity".

Is it grammatically correct to use "caught a line" in formal writing?

Yes, it is grammatically correct, but consider the specific context. For very formal writing, choose a more precise alternative that clearly conveys the intended meaning, as suggested by "hooked a fish" or "intercepted a pass".