move the line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "move the line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are discussing changing a boundary, limit, or standard, whether literally or metaphorically. Example: "In order to accommodate more participants, we need to move the line for registration to allow for additional entries."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

34 human-written examples

HOIST Move the line directly up.

The New York Times

LOWER Move the line directly down.

The New York Times

He didn't move the line; he invented the line".

The New York Times

But, this week, he let Boehner move the line.

The New York Times

They know I'm just trying to move the line.

The New Yorker

Move the line "line2" one step back in the rendering order.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

26 human-written examples

Math and money move the lines.

Los Angeles Times

Lines will appear along the edges of your photo Move the lines to eliminate unnecessary background.

WikiHow

You can move the lines up and down, adding and subtracting light and contrast as you go.

WikiHow

The move_line command moves the line to a new position.

Harvard University

Because they moved the line for their own good.

The Washington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider your audience and the formality of the context. While generally acceptable, "move the line" might be replaced with more precise language in formal writing.

Common error

While versatile, "move the line" can sound informal in academic or business writing. Opt for alternatives like "redefine the parameters" or "adjust the criteria" to maintain a professional tone.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "move the line" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It describes the action of changing a boundary, limit, or standard. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's usable in various contexts. It can be used both literally and figuratively.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "move the line" is a versatile phrase used to describe the act of changing a boundary, limit, or standard. While generally correct and usable as confirmed by Ludwig AI, its appropriateness depends on the context. It's frequently found in News & Media and Wiki sources, and less so in more formal or scientific settings, where more precise language may be preferred. When writing, consider the audience and formality of the situation, opting for alternatives like "shift the boundary" or "redefine the parameters" in formal contexts. Remember to ensure the context makes what boundary/standard is being altered clearly.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

shift the boundary

Focuses on altering a defined limit or border, emphasizing a change in demarcation.

adjust the limit

Highlights the act of modifying a constraint or restriction, suggesting a change in allowable parameters.

redefine the parameters

Emphasizes a fundamental change in the defining characteristics or scope of something.

alter the course

Implies a change in direction or trajectory, suggesting a deviation from the original path.

change the rules

Focuses on modifying established guidelines or regulations, highlighting an alteration in governing principles.

raise the bar

Indicates setting a higher standard or expectation, suggesting an increase in the level of performance required.

lower the threshold

Suggests decreasing the minimum requirement or acceptable level, making something easier to achieve.

extend the deadline

Refers to prolonging the period allowed for completing a task, indicating a change in the time limit.

broaden the scope

Implies expanding the range or extent of something, suggesting an increase in coverage or inclusiveness.

advance the agenda

Focuses on promoting or furthering a particular set of goals or priorities, suggesting a shift in strategic focus.

FAQs

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

You can use "move the line" in sentences like: "The company decided to "move the line" for acceptable product defects to increase output", or "The politician's stance on the issue seemed to "move the line" on what is considered ethical behavior".

What does "move the line" mean?

The phrase "move the line" means to change a boundary, limit, or standard. It can be used literally, as in physically relocating a line, or metaphorically, as in altering ethical or social boundaries.

What can I say instead of "move the line"?

You can use alternatives like "shift the boundary", "adjust the limit", or "redefine the parameters" depending on the context.

Is it acceptable to use "move the line" in formal writing?

While "move the line" is generally understood, it may be considered too informal for some academic or business contexts. In those cases, consider more precise and formal alternatives such as "redefine the parameters" or "adjust the criteria".