on these lines

USAGE SUMMARY

"on these lines" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It typically implies that what follows should reflect the same style or pattern of what has already been said. For example, "We have been discussing the importance of art in society. On these lines, we can also consider its role in promoting social cohesion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Having reasoned on these lines, one might expect the lead of the club queen.

The New York Times - Arts

They somehow seem to have forgotten this of late, but a battle that shapes up on these lines is one designed for them to win.

Huffington Post

Would a move on these lines be universally loved?

The Guardian

But the military is working on these lines as well.

The New York Times

Perhaps Famuyiwa was influenced by a very similar Monty Python routine on these lines.

The Guardian - Film

He can probably persuade the current Iraqi government to sign up to something on these lines.

The Guardian - Opinion

But at least it did not rule out talking on these lines.

The Economist

A case-by-case judgment on these lines defines the role of the state in each area.

The Guardian

On these lines, devices called relays are supposed to cut the power at the first sign of big fluctuations.

The New York Times

"I do not see myself why an emergency brake on these lines means breaking the principle of freedom of movement.

The Guardian

I outsource to the Washington Post's excellent Fact Checker, which awards previous claims on these lines three Pinnochios.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on these lines" to indicate that your subsequent statements or actions will be consistent with a previously established idea, method, or style. It helps maintain coherence and logical flow in your writing or speech.

Common error

Avoid using "on these lines" when the connection to the preceding information is tenuous or nonexistent. Ensure that the subsequent content genuinely reflects a similar approach, idea, or style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on these lines" primarily functions as a transitional phrase, indicating a continuation of thought or action that is consistent with a previously mentioned idea, method, or style. Ludwig AI provides numerous examples illustrating this function across diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

37%

Science

32%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on these lines" functions as a versatile transitional phrase that is grammatically sound and widely accepted across various domains. As validated by Ludwig AI, its primary role is to indicate a continuation or alignment with a preceding idea, method, or style. While primarily found in News & Media and Scientific contexts, its neutral to formal register makes it suitable for professional and academic communications. Using "on these lines" effectively requires ensuring a genuine connection between the preceding and subsequent content, thereby maintaining coherence and clarity in your writing or speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

along these lines

This alternative is a simple synonym swap, replacing 'on' with 'along' for a very similar meaning.

in this manner

This alternative replaces the specific reference to 'lines' with a broader term for how something is done.

in this vein

This alternative uses a metaphorical expression to indicate a similar style or approach.

following this approach

This alternative emphasizes the methodology or strategy being used.

in a similar fashion

This alternative highlights the similarity in the way something is done.

in accordance with this idea

This alternative focuses on the alignment of actions or thoughts with a particular concept.

pursuing this direction

This alternative emphasizes the path or course of action being taken.

in keeping with this pattern

This alternative stresses the conformity to a pre-existing model or design.

using this method

This alternative highlights a specific, repeatable process.

by employing this strategy

This alternative accentuates the intentional and planned nature of the approach.

FAQs

How can I appropriately use "on these lines" in a sentence?

Use "on these lines" to introduce a statement or action that aligns with a preceding idea, method, or style. For instance, "We've discussed cost-cutting measures; "on these lines", we'll also review energy consumption."

What phrases can I use instead of "on these lines" to convey a similar meaning?

Alternatives include "along these lines", "in this manner", or "in this vein". The choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey.

Is there a difference between "on these lines" and "along these lines"?

The phrases "on these lines" and "along these lines" are largely interchangeable. Both indicate that what follows is similar in approach or concept to what has been previously stated. Any subtle difference is negligible in most contexts.

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "on these lines"?

Avoid using "on these lines" if there is no clear connection or similarity between what precedes it and what follows. Ensure that the subsequent information genuinely reflects the same idea, method, or style.