stern line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "stern line" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in nautical contexts to refer to a line or rope that is secured to the stern of a boat or ship to keep it in place. Example: "The crew secured the stern line to the dock to prevent the boat from drifting away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

Isaac, a student at the University of Texas at El Paso, explains that Mexican culture takes a stern line against homosexuality.

The Economist

Hillary Clinton, in her role as Secretary of State, has taken a stern line "condemning" the construction plans, and upbraiding Netanyahu.

The New Yorker

Perel takes a very stern line on what she sees as the excessive sense of entitlement that contemporary couples bring to their relationships.

The New Yorker

First Mr King adopted a controversially stern line in August, standing aside from the emergency injections of funds into the money markets made by America's Federal Reserve and the European Central Bank.

The Economist

The region's presidents, led by Brazil, took a stern line: Honduras was suspended from the Organisation of American States and the new president has still not been recognised by many governments.

The Economist

There's a measure in Colorado that would define personhood as beginning at the moment of conception, but it hasn't ginned up much attention, perhaps because even some pro-life people are queasy about such a stern line.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

The lines have specific names, like bow lines, stern lines and spring lines, to name a few.

Los Angeles Times

Prepare the proper rope (or line) and use stern lines to secure the stern, spring lines to control movement fore-and-aft, fender ties to tie up the boat fenders and the correct bow and dock ties to fit the type of dock you will be using.

WikiHow

The Economist took a sterner line, arguing that he was dragging his office into such disrepute that he would eventually lose all standing both at home and abroad.

The Economist

The French ambassador took a sterner line than de Montchalin, insisting that there was no justification, and only danger, in extending the UK's membership of the EU.

The Guardian

Mr. Tang, for his part, took a sterner line with reporters, insisting that Ms. Gao, 39, was a spy who had joined the "espionage organizations of Taiwan".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "stern line" in a nautical context, ensure that the type of line and its specific purpose (e.g., docking, mooring) are clear to the reader.

Common error

Avoid using "stern line" to describe abstract concepts like policies or attitudes unless a direct analogy to nautical practices is intended. The phrase is more effective when referring to actual physical lines on a vessel, where its use is literal and precise.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "stern line" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically in nautical contexts. It refers to a rope or line used to secure the stern of a boat. Ludwig confirms its correct usage in this specific context.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Wiki

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Academia

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "stern line" is a noun phrase primarily used in nautical contexts to refer to a rope securing the stern of a boat. As Ludwig AI confirms, its use is grammatically correct and common, particularly in news and media. While the phrase is most effective in literal nautical applications, it is important to avoid misapplication to abstract concepts. Consider related terms like "strict policy" or "firm stance" for non-nautical situations. Authoritative sources like The Economist and The New York Times employ "stern line" accurately in their reporting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strict policy

Emphasizes the rigidity and inflexibility of the approach.

firm stance

Focuses on the resolute and unwavering nature of the position.

tough measure

Highlights the severity and demanding aspect of the action.

rigid approach

Highlights the unbending and inflexible nature of the method.

severe penalty

Focuses on the harshness and strictness of the consequence.

disciplinarian approach

Highlights enforcement of strict rules and control.

uncompromising attitude

Focuses on the determination to maintain a fixed position.

draconian rule

Emphasizes the extreme severity and oppressiveness of the regulation.

inflexible regulation

Highlights the lack of adaptability and rigidity of the rule.

stringent guideline

Focuses on the strictness and precision of the recommended practice.

FAQs

What is a "stern line" in boating?

A "stern line" is a rope or line attached to the stern (rear) of a boat, typically used for docking, mooring, or securing the vessel. It helps control the boat's position relative to a dock or other fixed point.

What are some alternative phrases for a "stern line" in a nautical context?

Alternatives include "aft line" or "stern rope", depending on the specific context and preference. These terms are generally interchangeable when referring to the line at the back of a boat.

Can "stern line" be used to describe a strict policy or approach?

While "stern" alone can describe a strict or severe approach, "stern line" typically refers to a physical line on a boat. If you mean a strict policy, consider alternatives like "strict policy", "firm stance" or "tough measure".

What's the difference between a bow line and a "stern line"?

A bow line is attached to the front (bow) of the boat, while a "stern line" is attached to the rear (stern). They are used together to secure the boat, preventing it from moving forward, backward, or sideways.