draw a clear line

USAGE SUMMARY

"draw a clear line" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to when you have a need to clearly mark the distinction between two elements or ideas, and an example might be: "It is important to draw a clear line between professional responsibilities and personal relationships."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It is time to draw a clear line".

The Guardian - Sport

So starting now, we want to draw a clear line on this.

The New York Times

It's important to draw a clear line between social or family time and professional time.

The Guardian

It includes this firm directive: "So starting now, we want to draw a clear line on this.

The New York Times

The language was added in recent years to draw a clear line, said Thomas Dunne, the associate dean of undergraduates.

The New York Times

You can draw a clear line from the Chrysler bailout to the recent attempts to steady Wall Street.

The New York Times

The rules are an attempt to draw a clear line in a rather murky area: players are supposed to be student-athletes, not paid professionals.

The Economist

It is not easy to draw a clear line through all these events, said Stefan Kornelius, foreign editor of the daily Süddeutsche Zeitung.

The New York Times

But beyond such symbolic and formal similarities, American law and tradition have tried to draw a clear line between police and military forces.

The New York Times

As digital imaging techniques continue to improve in quality and affordability, it becomes increasingly difficult to draw a clear line between live action and animation.

Encyclopedia Britannica

To draw a clear line between anthropology and sociology is difficult, and the two disciplines are divided more by tradition than by the scholarly methods they employ.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "draw a clear line", ensure that the context provides enough information about what two things are being distinguished. Vagueness can undermine the clarity you're trying to achieve.

Common error

Avoid using overly complex language when you want to "draw a clear line". The phrase itself suggests simplicity and directness, so convoluted explanations can confuse your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "draw a clear line" functions as a verbal phrase used to express the action of making a distinct separation or differentiation. As evidenced by Ludwig AI, the phrase is often used to delineate boundaries or distinctions in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Science

15%

Encyclopedias

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "draw a clear line" is a common phrase used to express the action of making a distinct separation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use across diverse contexts, primarily in News & Media, Science, and Encyclopedias. While its register is generally neutral, it's crucial to provide sufficient context to specify what's being distinguished. Related phrases like "establish a clear boundary" offer similar ways to convey the need for clarity, while specific guidance helps avoid overcomplicating the intended distinction.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

establish a clear boundary

Emphasizes setting up a defined limit or separation, focusing on the act of establishing rather than just indicating.

delineate a precise border

Implies a more formal and detailed marking of a boundary, often used in cartography or legal contexts.

set a firm boundary

Focuses on the strength and rigidity of the established limit, suggesting a non-negotiable separation.

define a distinct separation

Highlights the act of clarifying a division, emphasizing that the two elements are notably different.

draw a sharp distinction

Implies a noticeable and easily perceived difference, where the division is obvious and unambiguous.

create a clear demarcation

Suggests a formal and often physical separation, such as in territory or responsibilities.

establish a rigid separation

Highlights a more forceful and inflexible differentiation between items.

make a definite distinction

Highlights the action of creating a specific distinction.

separate distinctly

This phrase emphasizes the act of separating elements with a high degree of clarity and differentiation.

discriminate clearly

Stresses the ability to perceive differences accurately and without confusion, often used in analytical contexts.

FAQs

What does "draw a clear line" mean?

The phrase "draw a clear line" means to make a distinct separation or distinction between two things, ideas, or concepts to avoid confusion.

How can I "draw a clear line" in my writing?

To "draw a clear line" in your writing, use direct and unambiguous language to differentiate between the points you're discussing. Provide specific examples and avoid generalizations.

What are some phrases similar to "draw a clear line"?

Similar phrases include "establish a clear boundary", "define a distinct separation", and "make a definite distinction", all suggesting the act of creating a noticeable differentiation.

When should I use "draw a clear line" versus other similar phrases?

Use "draw a clear line" when you want to emphasize the act of creating a distinction to promote understanding. If you want to focus on the strength of the separation, "set a firm boundary" might be more appropriate.