fall into line

USAGE SUMMARY

"fall into line" is a correct and common phrase in written English.
It means to conform or comply with something, usually rules or expectations. Example: "After repeated warnings, the students finally fell into line and followed the school's dress code."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

His message: fall into line, or else.

The Guardian

The headmistress rings a bell and they fall into line.

Independent

He refused to fall into line behind Yasir Arafat.

The New York Times

They'll have to look sharp and bow their heads and fall into line.

The New Yorker

Even Southern Italy, and Sicily in particular, began to fall into line.

The New Yorker

Once he has pronounced on any big issue, all will fall into line.

The Economist

"He must fall into line with Kabul," says a senior Iranian diplomat tartly.

The Economist

We have theories, and expect the facts to fall into line behind them.

The New York Times

It will be for the league to persuade them to fall into line.

The Economist

Everyone is to fall into line and start filing out into the street.

Stanford University

He has not ruled out pushing for quotas if companies do not fall into line.

The Guardian - Business

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "fall into line", consider the context. It often implies a power dynamic where someone is being compelled to conform, so make sure it aligns with your intended meaning.

Common error

While "fall into line" is a common phrase, it can sound overly formal or even harsh in casual conversation. Opt for more relaxed alternatives like "go along with" or "get on board" in informal settings.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "fall into line" functions primarily as a verb phrase, indicating an action of conforming or complying. Ludwig AI confirms this usage is correct and common. The phrase suggests adapting to expectations or directives.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

59%

Formal & Business

17%

Academia

15%

Less common in

Science

6%

Wiki

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "fall into line" is a verb phrase that's very commonly used to describe the act of conforming or complying with expectations, rules, or directives. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is correct and common in written English. While generally neutral in register, it can lean toward formal depending on context and is frequently found in "News & Media", "Formal & Business", and academic settings. When using "fall into line", consider the power dynamic it implies and whether a more relaxed alternative might be appropriate. Remember, understanding the nuances of language is key to effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

toe the line

Highlights strict adherence to a set standard, often implying a forced compliance.

abide by the rules

Stresses a commitment to respecting rules and laws.

conform to expectations

Focuses on meeting specific standards or requirements rather than just general compliance.

adhere to the guidelines

Highlights sticking rigidly to the specified guidelines.

get in step

Emphasizes synchronization and moving in harmony with others.

comply with regulations

Specifically addresses adhering to legal or formal rules.

align oneself with

Stresses a deliberate choice to agree or support a particular group or cause.

follow suit

Suggests imitating or copying the actions of someone else.

get with the program

This alternative carries a colloquial tone, suggesting acceptance and active participation in the ongoing situation.

integrate into the system

Emphasizes becoming a part of, and adapting to, a larger framework.

FAQs

What does "fall into line" mean?

The phrase "fall into line" means to conform to or comply with rules, expectations, or the prevailing way of thinking. It often implies a sense of obligation or pressure to align with others.

How can I use "fall into line" in a sentence?

You can use "fall into line" to describe situations where someone is expected to conform, such as "The new employees were instructed to "fall into line" with the company's policies".

What are some alternatives to "fall into line"?

Alternatives to "fall into line" include "comply with", "conform to", "toe the line", or "get on board". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is "fall into line" formal or informal?

"Fall into line" sits in a neutral register but can lean toward formal depending on the context. In more casual situations, phrases like "go along with" or "get with the program" might be more appropriate.