on what lines

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on what lines" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when asking for clarification or specifics regarding the framework or basis of a discussion or argument. Example: "Can you elaborate on what lines you believe the project should follow to ensure its success?"

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

5 human-written examples

"Senior staff need to be able to make decisions very early in the day on what lines to take and to work out whether action is needed on anything.

The Guardian

He canceled his engage ment and hurried to the theater atop The Lambs, where Mr. Parks gave him the text of the play to read onstage and out lined the blocking where and how the actors stood and on what lines they moved.

The New York Times

An agreement on what lines?

Forbes

The problem is that I often change my mind on what lines I'd want to stick on my body (although the opening verse of "The Waste Land" and various lines from Blood Meridian have endured as ideas for sometime).

TechCrunch

And one of them is: Wait a minute … what business do we want to be in, and why?" He likens the process to "stepping backwards into a master plan," and admits it wasn't until about a year ago that he and Unitech's senior managers began to get clear on what lines of businesses they most wanted to be in.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

The authority has not said when it plans to test the cars or on what line.

The New York Times

Lesser amounts are awarded for four matching numbers depending on what line they are on, or if the player matches two or three numbers per line.

The New York Times

In cases where there was not a clear consensus on what line the leader should take, the editor issues his ruling.

The Economist

The entire experience was phenomenal and I came away with a more directed focus on what line of work I would like to find myself in, in the future.

Cornell University

Previously an executive with Aerolíneas Argentinas, he said, "I used to go a lot to Brazil, and I would always decide what passport to show depending on what line was shorter".

The New York Times

Plus, you never know: Depending on what line of work you're in, your tax preparer might become a client.

Forbes

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on what lines", ensure the context clearly establishes a framework, direction, or set of guidelines to which the question refers. Otherwise, the phrase may sound vague.

Common error

Avoid using "on what lines" when a simpler question like "how" or "why" would suffice. The phrase is most effective when seeking clarification about a process or strategy, not just a general explanation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on what lines" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase used to introduce a question. It seeks clarification regarding the framework, direction, or basis upon which something is determined or organized. Ludwig provides examples where it clarifies decision-making processes or agreements.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Science

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on what lines" is a grammatically sound prepositional phrase used to inquire about the foundation or direction of a plan or decision. While Ludwig AI indicates its correct usage, its frequency is relatively rare. It is suitable for neutral to formal contexts, particularly in news, academic, and business settings. When using this phrase, ensure that the context provides a clear reference point for the "lines" being discussed. Alternatives include "on what basis" or "in what manner", depending on the desired nuance. Overall, while valid, consider if a simpler question would be more effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on what basis

Focuses on the foundation or justification for something.

along what avenue

Substitutes "lines" with "avenue", implying a direction or method.

by what criteria

Highlights the standards used for judgment or decision-making.

following what approach

Suggests a method or strategy being pursued.

in what manner

Replaces the phrase with a more general inquiry about the way something is done.

according to which principles

Emphasizes the guiding rules or beliefs.

within what parameters

Specifies the limits or boundaries.

under what conditions

Indicates the circumstances or requirements.

pursuant to what guidelines

Formal alternative focusing on adherence to official rules.

in accordance with what framework

Focuses on structured sets of rules or procedures.

FAQs

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

You can use "on what lines" to ask about the direction or basis of a plan, discussion, or argument. For example, "Can you elaborate on what lines the budget was created?"

What's a good alternative to "on what lines"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "on what basis", "in what manner", or "according to which principles".

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

Yes, "on what lines" can be used in formal writing, especially when seeking clarification about strategies or frameworks. However, ensure the context is appropriate and a simpler alternative doesn't suffice.

What does "on what lines" mean?

"On what lines" generally means according to what plan, direction, or set of principles. It seeks clarification about the underlying framework or strategy.