on those lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on those lines" is grammatically correct and can be used in written English.
It means "similar to that" or "along similar lines". It is often used when discussing a topic or idea that is related to something previously mentioned. Example: "We have been brainstorming ideas for the new marketing campaign, and I think we should do something on those lines - a social media campaign that targets younger audiences."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

About a week after Obama's speech, The Wall Street Journal's Gordon Crovitz took on those lines from Obama's speech, claiming it was an "urban legend" that the government built the Internet.

The New York Times - Magazine

Trains on the Blue, Orange and Silver lines passed through on one track, causing delays on those lines.

The Washington Post

The variation used in Rebirth is the Three-Line LMBS, using a similar multi-plain mechanic to Tales of Symphonia: characters can be moved across three different levels on the battlefield to either attack enemies on those lines or dodge behind an enemy on one line to deal damage from behind.

Wikipedia

Passengers on those lines are to bypass Cortlandt Street.

The New York Times

There's a beautiful argument by Peierls on those lines.

The New York Times

Most weekend service on those lines runs with 8-minute gaps.

The New York Times

He said his administration had made more than $90 million available for research on those lines.

The New York Times

Ridership on those lines was 839,466 last year, according to state figures.

The Washington Post

Most of the products made on those lines will go to the U.S. eventually.

MIT Technology Review

Placing further pressure on those lines — Why did you like it?

The New York Times - Books

Expect to hear more on those lines as Mr. Levy introduces himself to the state.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on those lines" to smoothly connect ideas or actions that share similar characteristics or goals within your writing.

Common error

While versatile, avoid overusing "on those lines" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise and nuanced language might be preferable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on those lines" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase. It modifies a verb or noun by indicating similarity or a connection to something previously mentioned. Ludwig examples confirm its role in linking related ideas.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Academia

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on those lines" is a versatile prepositional phrase that connects ideas or actions based on similarity. It's grammatically sound and commonly used, as confirmed by Ludwig. While acceptable in various contexts, writers should consider the register and opt for more precise language in highly formal settings. Consider alternatives like "along similar lines" or "in that vein" for nuance. Ultimately, Ludwig AI's analysis shows that "on those lines" is a valuable tool for building coherent arguments and suggesting interconnectedness between concepts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

along similar lines

This alternative is almost perfectly interchangeable and maintains near identical meaning.

in that vein

This option is more concise, focusing on the similarity in the approach or style.

in a similar fashion

This phrase places emphasis on the manner or method being alike.

on a parallel course

This suggests a direction or development that is similar and moving in tandem.

in the same direction

This implies a shared goal or aim rather than a method.

following that train of thought

This option focuses on the continuity of ideas and logic.

pursuing a comparable path

This highlights the journey or strategy being comparable.

with a comparable approach

The emphasis here is on the similarity of the method taken.

in keeping with that idea

This shows alignment or consistency with an existing concept.

in that context

This is a more general option referring to a shared situation or backdrop.

FAQs

How can I use "on those lines" in a sentence?

You can use "on those lines" to indicate similarity or connection to a previously mentioned idea, for example, "The initial proposal was rejected, but we're developing a new strategy "along those lines"".

What is a synonym for "on those lines"?

Synonyms for "on those lines" include "along similar lines", "in that vein", or "in a similar fashion", all of which suggest a similar approach or direction.

Is it appropriate to use "on those lines" in formal writing?

While "on those lines" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "in that regard" or "with a similar approach" might be more suitable in highly formal contexts.

What's the difference between "on those lines" and "in that direction"?

"On those lines" suggests a similarity in method or concept, whereas "in that direction" implies a shared goal or aim. For example, "We should proceed "on those lines", using a similar strategy," versus "We should head "in that direction", toward the main objective."