delivering a line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delivering a line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to acting, speaking, or presenting, where someone is conveying a specific statement or dialogue. Example: "The actor was praised for delivering a line with such emotion that it captivated the entire audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Mr. Romney is shown delivering a line from his stump speech.

The New York Times

She thought one of his more memorable moments, delivering a line in Chinese, fell flat.

The New York Times

When he showed us Wallace delivering a line of dialogue – "We've forgotten the crackers!" – we laughed out loud.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

She has become incapable of delivering a line like "Hello, Vince" to the actor who plays her son because she keeps using the actor's real name.

The New York Times - Books

"It's like blue balls in my heart": part 267 in "Vince Vaughn delivering a line that he lacks the personality to pull off".

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Rarely delivering a line without fingering her flat-ironed hair, Ms. LoPatin gets it absolutely right, as does Karen DiConcetto, who somehow excavates a character from the walking sight gag of Snooki.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The rebound went to St. Francis' Thomas Banks, who didn't hesitated in delivering a lined shot that Moffat was also there to save.

Los Angeles Times

"He can deliver a line if he has to.

The New Yorker

The way he delivers a line, the way he repeats a phrase – "Not good, folks.

The Guardian - Opinion

Henry delivered a line that usually got a laugh, but now it fell flat.

The New Yorker

We now know Stevens can also deliver a line -- and that the camera loves him.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In screenwriting or playwriting, consider the impact of a character's delivery on the audience's perception of their personality and motivations.

Common error

Avoid focusing solely on the content of the line while neglecting the manner of its delivery. The effectiveness of a line often depends just as much on how it's said as what is said.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delivering a line" primarily functions as a verbal phrase, describing the act of conveying dialogue or a statement, often in a performance or communicative context. Ludwig AI suggests that this phrase is suitable for describing scenarios involving speech or presentation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Arts

20%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Science

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "delivering a line" is a grammatically sound and frequently used phrase, particularly in contexts related to news, media, and the arts. Its primary function is to describe the act of conveying dialogue or a statement, and its effectiveness depends on factors such as tone, clarity, and timing. According to Ludwig AI, this phrase is applicable across various communication contexts, emphasizing the performance aspect of conveying information. While Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability, it's crucial to consider the context and ensure the delivery enhances rather than detracts from the content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

performing a line

Highlights the act of enacting or presenting a line with a certain skill or artistry.

reciting a line

Focuses specifically on the act of repeating a line from memory, often in a theatrical context.

speaking a line

A general term for saying a line, without specific emphasis on performance or delivery.

uttering a line

Emphasizes the act of speaking a line, often with a specific tone or intention.

pronouncing a line

Focuses on the articulation and clarity of speech when saying a line.

voicing a line

Implies giving auditory expression to a line, often in a character or role.

conveying a line

Highlights the successful transmission of a line's meaning or emotion to an audience.

articulating a line

Focuses on clear and effective expression when speaking a line.

presenting a line

Emphasizes the formal or deliberate introduction of a line to an audience.

enunciating a line

Emphasizes careful and precise pronunciation of each word in the line.

FAQs

How is "delivering a line" typically used in writing?

It's commonly used to describe an actor's performance, a speaker presenting information, or someone conveying a particular statement, emphasizing the manner and effectiveness of their presentation.

What are some alternatives to "delivering a line"?

You can use alternatives like "reciting a line", "uttering a line", or "performing a line" depending on the specific context and emphasis you want to convey.

Is "delivering a line" formal or informal language?

It's considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The key is the clarity and effectiveness of the communication, not the formality of the situation.

What makes "delivering a line" effective?

Effective delivery depends on factors like tone, emotion, clarity, and timing. The most impactful deliveries align with the intended message and resonate with the audience.