join the line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "join the line" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it whenever you want someone to join a physical queue or line, either to purchase something or to receive a service. For example, you could say "If you would like to purchase tickets, please join the line".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Travel

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

We join the line.

The New Yorker

Ronaldo did not join the line.

The New York Times - Sports

A turbocharged version will also join the line.

The New York Times

She pivoted, as if to join the line, then hesitated.

The New York Times

They join the line in a hot dusty neighborhood called Zangili and begin the wait.

The New York Times

And you do not have to be a hard-core surfer to join the line up.

The New York Times - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

A diesel will join the line-up later this year.

The New York Times

New processors will join the line-up next year as other manufacturers begin the Ultrabook push.

The New York Times

Eavis also hinted that Florence Welch could join the line-up, but said she would not be headlining.

Independent

Pharrell Williams is the latest performer to join the line-up for next month's Brit Awards show, it has been confirmed.

Independent

Other celebrities touted to join the line-up include Tulisa Contostavlos, Michelle Keegan, Max George, Dynamo, Teri Hatcher, Liam Gallagher and Katie Hopkins.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When providing instructions, use "join the line" to clearly direct individuals to an orderly waiting system, such as at events, customer service points, or transportation hubs.

Common error

Avoid using "join the line" interchangeably with phrases like "cut in line". "Join the line" implies entering at the end, while "cut in line" means skipping ahead, which is often considered impolite.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "join the line" functions as an imperative phrase, commonly used to instruct or direct someone to enter a queue or waiting line. As Ludwig confirms, the phrase is correct and understandable in written English. Examples from the provided data illustrate its use in diverse real-world situations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

54%

Wiki

11%

Travel

8%

Less common in

Lifestyle

2%

Arts

2%

Food

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "join the line" is a commonly used and grammatically sound phrase that means to enter a queue or waiting line. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is appropriate for a wide range of contexts, from casual instructions to formal announcements. Its primary function is to provide clear direction, ensuring order and fairness. Alternatives like "get in line" or "queue up" can be used depending on the context and desired level of formality. When using this phrase, ensure clarity and avoid confusion with similar expressions like "cut in line".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get in line

Replaces "join" with "get", a more casual verb indicating the action of entering a queue.

get into the queue

Uses "queue" instead of "line", another common term for waiting in order.

queue up

Uses "queue up", a phrasal verb common in British English for forming a line.

line up

This alternative simply reverses the order of the original words but retains the core meaning.

enter the line

Substitutes "join" with "enter", focusing on the physical action of becoming part of the line.

take your place in line

Emphasizes the act of assuming a position within the existing queue.

add yourself to the line

This alternative emphasizes the personal action of contributing to the line's length.

fall in line

Suggests conforming to an established order or sequence, implying agreement or compliance.

become part of the line

More descriptive, highlighting the integration into an existing group.

enlist in the line

Uses "enlist" to suggest a more formal or committed entry into the queue, similar to joining an organization.

FAQs

How can I use "join the line" in a sentence?

You can use "join the line" to instruct someone to enter a queue. For example, "If you want to buy tickets, please "join the line" forming near the entrance."

What are some alternatives to saying "join the line"?

Instead of "join the line", you could say "get in line", "queue up", or "line up", depending on the context and desired formality.

Is it more appropriate to say "join the line" or "get in line"?

Both "join the line" and "get in line" are acceptable, but "get in line" is generally considered more informal. The best choice depends on your audience and the situation.

What is the difference between "join the line" and "wait in line"?

"Join the line" refers to the action of entering a queue, whereas "wait in line" describes the state of being in a queue and waiting for your turn.