is on the line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is on the line" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to mean that something is at risk and in a precarious situation where any mistake or misstep could have major consequences to the outcome of the event. For example, "The team's chance of making it to the playoffs is on the line in tonight's game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Everything is on the line.

The New York Times

Its own authority is on the line.

The New York Times

The American economy is on the line.

The New York Times

NATO's credibility is on the line.

The New York Times

Obama's word is on the line.

The New York Times

Because our credibility is on the line.

The New Yorker

America's credibility is on the line.

The New York Times

His international credibility is on the line.

The New York Times

TOM HANKS is on the line.

The New York Times

"Our credibility is on the line.

The New York Times

"MR. ICAHN is on the line".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "is on the line", clearly specify what is at risk to ensure your audience understands the gravity of the situation. For example, instead of saying "Everything is on the line", state "The company's future is on the line".

Common error

Avoid using "is on the line" too frequently in your writing, as it can diminish its impact. Instead, vary your language by using synonyms like "at stake", "in jeopardy", or other contextually appropriate alternatives to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is on the line" primarily functions as a predicate adjective, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe a state of risk or uncertainty. Ludwig AI highlights its usage in diverse contexts, such as when someone's 'job is on the line' or when 'America's credibility is on the line'.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

84%

Academia

6%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is on the line" is a versatile and common expression used to highlight situations of significant risk or uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in News & Media. When using "is on the line", ensure clarity by specifying what exactly is at risk and avoid overuse to maintain its impact. Consider alternatives like "at stake" or "in jeopardy" for variety. Remember that while versatile, the phrase is most appropriate when genuine risk is involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is at stake

Emphasizes what could be lost if things go wrong.

is in jeopardy

Highlights the danger or threat involved.

is at risk

Focuses on the possibility of something negative happening.

hangs in the balance

Implies a state of uncertainty where the outcome could go either way.

is on the verge

Suggests something is about to happen, possibly negatively.

is on the brink

Similar to "is on the verge", indicating a critical point.

is in the balance

Indicates that the final outcome is still uncertain.

is in a precarious position

Emphasizes the unstable or insecure nature of the situation.

is on thin ice

Suggests a risky or dangerous situation where mistakes can have serious consequences.

is touch and go

Implies a critical situation where the outcome is uncertain and delicate.

FAQs

How can I use "is on the line" in a sentence?

You can use "is on the line" to indicate that something is at risk or in a precarious situation. For example, "The team's chance of winning the championship "is on the line" in the final game".

What's a more formal way to say "is on the line"?

In more formal contexts, you could use phrases like "at stake", or "is in jeopardy". These alternatives convey a similar meaning but with a more serious tone.

What are some alternatives to "is on the line" that aren't as strong?

If you want to express risk with less intensity, consider using phrases like "is at risk" or "hangs in the balance". These phrases suggest a possibility of negative outcomes without necessarily implying imminent danger.

Is it ever incorrect to use "is on the line"?

While grammatically correct, using "is on the line" might be inappropriate if the context doesn't genuinely involve significant risk or consequence. Ensure the situation warrants such a strong expression; otherwise, opt for more moderate language.