delivers a line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "delivers a line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as acting, writing, or speaking when referring to someone presenting a specific statement or dialogue. Example: "The actor delivers a line with such emotion that it captivates the audience."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

TV & Radio

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

14 human-written examples

Then he delivers a line that jolted me out of puzzling.

The Guardian - Music

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

The Guardian - Opinion

Andrea Martin (from "SCTV"), who plays Toula's aunt, points her nose skyward and delivers a line like "He don't eat no meat?

The New Yorker

Ridley is given plenty to do before she even delivers a line: proof not just that Abrams trusts her but that his obedience to the basic laws of action movies is intact.

The New Yorker

Klaus Maria Brandauer is the dissident Soviet scientist who wants to smuggle a book manuscript out of his country and who, like Moody in "Not Without My Daughter," delivers a line that seems overtaken by world events.

The New York Times

A comic device whereby a panicky Joe or Louis delivers a line three times in succession — "What are you doing here?" or "Don't even get me started," with variations in wording and volume — is used at least four times in the episode.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

46 human-written examples

Ledger delivers a line-reading worthy of Lear (at 2 00, the way he says: "No I'm not. No. I'm. Not")., a psychologically true character as cartoonish as O'Toole's Lawrence.

The Guardian - Film

"He can deliver a line if he has to.

The New Yorker

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

The New York Times

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

The New Yorker

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

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "delivers a line" when you want to emphasize the performance aspect of speaking, especially in contexts like acting or public speaking. It suggests a deliberate and impactful presentation.

Common error

Avoid using "delivers a line" in informal contexts where a simple "says" or "states" would be more appropriate. The phrase carries a sense of intentionality and performance that may be out of place in casual conversation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "delivers a line" functions as a verb phrase describing the act of speaking a specific part of dialogue or text, often with intention and emphasis. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Film

21%

TV & Radio

14%

Less common in

Wiki

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "delivers a line" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone speaking, especially in a performance or formal setting. As noted by Ludwig AI, it's correct and usable in various contexts. Predominantly found in news and media, film, and TV/radio sources, the phrase emphasizes the intentional and impactful presentation of the spoken words. When writing, be mindful of the connotation of intentionality, as it's best suited for scenarios where the delivery is deliberate rather than casual. Consider alternatives like "utters a sentence" or "recites a line" for slightly different nuances.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

utters a sentence

Focuses on the act of speaking a complete thought.

speaks a phrase

Emphasizes the verbalization of a specific group of words.

recites a line

Highlights the memorized and repeated nature of the statement.

presents a remark

Indicates a formal or deliberate statement.

articulates a statement

Focuses on the clarity and precision of the speech.

pronounces a sentence

Highlights the act of formally declaring or announcing something.

enunciates a phrase

Emphasizes clear and distinct pronunciation.

verbalizes a thought

Focuses on expressing an internal idea through speech.

expresses a sentiment

Highlights the communication of a feeling or opinion.

vocalizes an opinion

Focuses on making an opinion known through speaking.

FAQs

What does "delivers a line" mean?

The phrase "delivers a line" typically refers to someone, often an actor or performer, presenting a specific statement or piece of dialogue with intention and emphasis.

What can I say instead of "delivers a line"?

You can use alternatives like "utters a sentence", "speaks a phrase", or "recites a line" depending on the context.

Is "delivers a line" formal or informal?

"Delivers a line" leans toward a neutral to slightly formal register, often used in discussions about performance, media, or public speaking rather than casual conversation.

How does the context affect the meaning of "delivers a line"?

The context can change the nuances of "delivers a line". In acting, it refers to the performance of dialogue. In other settings, it may imply the impactful or deliberate presentation of information.