toe the line

USAGE SUMMARY

"toe the line" is a correct phrase.
You can use it to express that someone is following a rule or policy. For example, "He knew he had to toe the line at work and always arrive on time".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

28 human-written examples

I toe the line.

The New York Times

They often do not toe the line.

The Guardian

Yet he can also toe the line.

The New York Times - Arts

Ordinary people are careful to toe the line.

The Economist

Another refused to toe the line on the death penalty.

The Economist

But, perhaps, this time he'll toe the line.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

You put on those running shorts and toe the line.

Los Angeles Times

"The idiom is 'toe the line,' not t-o-w," the Democrats sneered.

The New York Times

The Olympus E-420 tries to toe the line between high-end S.L.R. and mini-shooter.

The New York Times - Tech

Mr. Shevchuk says his refusal to toe the line has cost him.

The New York Times

Ms. Brewer doesn't detect a municipal passion for getting them to toe the line.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "toe the line" when you want to convey the idea of conforming to a specific set of rules, regulations, or expectations, especially in situations where there might be pressure to deviate.

Common error

Avoid using "toe the line" in situations where flexibility and innovation are valued. This phrase implies strict adherence and may not be appropriate when creativity or independent thinking is desired.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "toe the line" primarily functions as a verb phrase, expressing the action of conforming to rules or expectations. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Wiki

0%

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "toe the line" is a common idiom that means to conform to rules or expectations. Ludwig AI confirms it is grammatically correct and widely used, especially in news and media. It conveys the importance of adhering to standards and is often employed in contexts where compliance is emphasized. While versatile, it's best suited for neutral to slightly formal settings and should be avoided when flexibility and innovation are paramount. Alternatives such as "follow the rules" and "comply with regulations" can provide similar meanings. The phrase is used often in authoritative sources such as The New York Times, The Guardian and The Economist.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

follow the rules

Emphasizes adherence to established regulations.

obey the rules

Highlights the act of compliance with commands or regulations.

conform to expectations

Focuses on meeting anticipated standards or behaviors.

abide by the rules

Stresses acceptance and observance of established guidelines.

comply with regulations

Highlights the act of adhering to specific legal or procedural requirements.

fall in line

Suggests aligning oneself with a group or system.

keep in step

Implies maintaining pace and harmony with others.

play by the book

Highlights adherence to established rules and procedures, often in a formal setting.

observe the conventions

Focuses on adhering to accepted social norms and behaviors.

maintain discipline

Suggests upholding a standard of conduct or obedience.

FAQs

What does it mean to "toe the line"?

To "toe the line" means to conform to a rule or standard, or to behave according to expectations.

How can I use "toe the line" in a sentence?

You can use "toe the line" in a sentence like this: "The company expects all employees to "toe the line" and follow company policy."

What are some alternatives to "toe the line"?

Some alternatives to "toe the line" include "follow the rules", "obey the rules", or "comply with regulations".

Is "toe the line" formal or informal?

"Toe the line" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although it is more common in news and media and less frequent in strictly academic or scientific writing.