cross a line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cross a line" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that someone has gone beyond acceptable behavior or limits. Example: "When he made that offensive joke, he really crossed a line."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Did Ms. Friedrich cross a line?

The New York Times

"But does it cross a line?

The New York Times

He did cross a line.

The New York Times - Sports

Even most villains won't cross a line.

Independent

I'm about to cross a line but I can't stop.

The New Yorker

She wants to cross a line into a new place.

The New Yorker

At what point do friends cross a line such that they don't deserve one's friendship?

The Guardian

Senator Hanson didn't just cross a line, she deliberately trashed it.

The Guardian - Opinion

But there comes a point where you cross a line and begin obstructing freedom.

The New York Times

But with that 1941 speech he seemed to cross a line.

The New Yorker

"The technology would therefore cross a line many have viewed as ethically inviolable," it states.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific nuance you wish to convey; alternatives like "overstep a boundary" or "violate a principle" may be more precise depending on the situation.

Common error

Avoid using "cross a line" when simply describing disagreement or dislike. This phrase implies a violation of established or understood limits, not just a difference in opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cross a line" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that someone has exceeded the limits of acceptable behavior or has violated a moral or ethical boundary. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cross a line" is a commonly used idiomatic expression that describes the act of exceeding acceptable boundaries or violating a principle. Ludwig AI confirms that it's grammatically correct and appropriate for various contexts, mainly in News & Media. When writing, consider using alternative phrases like "overstep a boundary" or "go too far" for variety. Remember that "cross a line" generally carries a negative connotation, indicating disapproval of someone's actions. Ensure you're using it to describe a genuine violation of established limits, not just a difference of opinion.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

go too far

A more general expression indicating that someone's actions have exceeded what is considered reasonable or acceptable.

overstep a boundary

Focuses on exceeding a defined limit or boundary, often in a social or ethical context.

overstep the mark

Similar to "go too far" but with a stronger emphasis on inappropriate behavior.

transgress boundaries

A more formal way of saying "cross a line", emphasizing the act of violating a limit.

exceed the limits

Emphasizes surpassing established restrictions or boundaries.

violate a principle

Highlights the transgression of a moral or ethical guideline.

trespass norms

Indicates an intrusion upon accepted standards of behavior.

infringe standards

Focuses on the violation of established benchmarks or expectations.

breach etiquette

Specifically refers to violating social norms or proper conduct.

push the envelope

Suggests stretching the limits of what is acceptable, often in a creative or innovative way.

FAQs

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

You can use "cross a line" to describe when someone's behavior has become unacceptable. For example, "He crossed a line when he made personal attacks during the debate."

What's a more formal alternative to "cross a line"?

Alternatives such as "transgress boundaries" or "infringe standards" offer a more formal way to express the idea of violating an established limit.

Is "cross a line" always negative?

Yes, "cross a line" generally carries a negative connotation, implying that someone has acted inappropriately or unacceptably. It suggests a violation of established norms or ethical boundaries.

What's the difference between "go too far" and "cross a line"?

While both phrases indicate exceeding acceptable limits, "go too far" is a more general expression. "Cross a line" implies a specific boundary has been violated, often with ethical or moral implications.