thin line

USAGE SUMMARY

"thin line" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation or decision where there is a very small difference between two options. For example: "Choosing between right and wrong is often a thin line."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

It's a thin line.

The New York Times - Sports

It's a very thin line.

The New York Times

They are walking a thin line".

The New York Times

A thin line of light.

The New Yorker

"That's a very thin line to walk".

The New York Times

That's a thin line to walk".

The New York Times

A thin line of eyeliner, sure.

The Guardian - Opinion

There's a thin line we're treading.

The New York Times

"It's a thin line and I'm fuckin' with it".

The Guardian - Music

There is a very thin line between the two.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Frame eyes with a medium-thin line of black kohl.

WikiHow

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "thin line" to illustrate situations where a minor change can lead to significantly different outcomes. For instance, "There's a thin line between confidence and arrogance."

Common error

Avoid using "thin line" when you actually mean "bottom line", which refers to the financial result of a company's operations. While both involve lines, they have entirely different meanings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "thin line" functions primarily as a noun phrase that serves as a subject complement or object of a preposition. It describes a subtle distinction or boundary, often between two contrasting concepts or states. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

20%

Science

9%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "thin line" is a versatile expression used to describe a subtle distinction between two often contrasting concepts. It is grammatically sound and sees frequent use across diverse contexts, especially in news and media. According to Ludwig, the phrase is correct and usable. The related phrases such as "fine distinction" and "delicate balance" offer alternative ways to express this idea. When using "thin line", be mindful of potential confusion with "bottom line", and remember that it emphasizes the precarious nature of a situation where a small change matters. The high frequency and varied application in authoritative sources underscore its importance in effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fine line

A more common synonym, directly replacing "thin" with "fine".

fine distinction

Focuses on the subtlety of the difference.

slight difference

Directly states the minimal variation between two things.

delicate balance

Emphasizes the need for careful equilibrium.

narrow margin

Highlights the small degree of tolerance or difference.

subtle boundary

Underscores the understated nature of the dividing point.

razor's edge

Implies a precarious and potentially dangerous situation.

tenuous distinction

Stresses the fragility and potential unreliability of the difference.

precarious balance

Highlights the instability of the situation.

hairline fracture

Uses a medical metaphor to indicate a barely visible divide.

FAQs

How can I use "thin line" in a sentence?

You can use "thin line" to describe a subtle difference between two things. For example, "There's a "thin line" between love and hate" or "He walks a "thin line" between genius and madness".

What is a synonym for "thin line"?

Synonyms for "thin line" include "fine line", "fine distinction", "delicate balance", or "narrow margin", depending on the specific context.

What does it mean to "walk a thin line"?

To "walk a "thin line"" means to be in a situation where one must be very careful not to make a mistake, because the consequences could be severe. It implies navigating a delicate or precarious situation.

Is it correct to say "there is a fine line" instead of "there is a thin line"?

Yes, "there is a "fine line"" is a perfectly acceptable alternative to "there is a "thin line"". Both phrases carry essentially the same meaning and are widely used.