clear red line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "clear red line" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate a boundary or limit that should not be crossed, often in discussions about rules, ethics, or policies. Example: "The company has established a clear red line regarding employee conduct, and any violations will result in disciplinary action."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

He added that China "must draw a clear red line against American attempts to surround it".

The New York Times

The French have drawn a clear "red line" against losing their independent foreign policy.

The Economist

And that began nearly a century of effort to create a clear red line for the international community.

The New York Times

On September 2nd he told his cabinet that "the international community is not setting Iran a clear red line".

The Economist

He set a very clear red line that if there was large-scale chemical weapons use something had to happen.

The Guardian

Another is disingenuous: Obama has set a clear red line on Iran — he will not permit Iran to become a nuclear-armed state.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

And clear "red lines" about what is permissible still exist.

The Guardian

At the same time, he insists that there should be "clear red lines".

The New Yorker

Mr. Obama has also rejected Mr. Netanyahu's demands to set clear "red lines" for Iran.

The New York Times

The discussions were "tough" and the BBC had "very clear red lines", Lyons said.

The Guardian

Under Mr. Assad's father, President Hafez al-Assad, there were clear red lines of intolerance.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "clear red line" to signal the potential for serious consequences if the stated boundary is violated.

Common error

While impactful, "clear red line" can sound overly dramatic in everyday conversation. Reserve its use for situations where the stakes are genuinely high, or the boundary is critically important. Consider more casual alternatives for less serious scenarios.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "clear red line" functions as a noun phrase that acts as a metaphor. It designates a specific, inviolable limit or boundary. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is commonly used to define unacceptable behaviors or actions, setting a threshold that should not be crossed.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "clear red line" is a commonly used and grammatically correct idiom that serves as a noun phrase, metaphorically representing a firm, inviolable boundary. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is typically used to establish limits and deter specific actions, frequently appearing in news and media, as well as formal and business settings. While generally neutral in register, its usage often suggests the gravity of the situation at hand. Related phrases, like ""firm boundary"" or ""non-negotiable limit"", offer alternative ways to express a similar concept. When using "clear red line", specificity is key to maximizing its impact, but avoid overuse in casual settings where it may sound overly dramatic.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Hard line

Shortened version implying an uncompromising stance.

Line in the sand

Idiomatic alternative emphasizing defiance and a firm stance.

Non-negotiable limit

Highlights that the limit is firm and cannot be compromised.

Firm boundary

Highlights the definiteness and rigidity of the border.

Defined limit

Emphasizes the clarity and precision of the imposed constraint.

Unacceptable boundary

Emphasizes the concept of a limit that cannot be tolerated or crossed.

Strict limitation

Stresses the severity and precision of the imposed constraint.

Point of no return

Indicates that crossing the line leads to irreversible consequences.

Uncrossable threshold

Emphasizes the impassable nature of the boundary.

Absolute prohibition

Highlights the strict and unconditional ban.

FAQs

What does the phrase "clear red line" mean?

The phrase "clear red line" signifies a limit or boundary that is explicitly defined and should not be crossed. Violating this line often implies significant consequences.

How to use "clear red line" in a sentence?

You can use "clear red line" to indicate a firm limit. For instance, "The company has set a "clear red line" regarding data privacy, and any breach will result in immediate termination".

What can I say instead of "clear red line"?

You can use alternatives like "firm boundary", "non-negotiable limit", or "hard line" depending on the context.

Is it redundant to say "very clear red line"?

While "clear" already implies a lack of ambiguity, adding "very" can emphasize the importance or explicitness of the boundary. However, consider whether the added emphasis is necessary or if ""clear red line"" alone is sufficient.