to-draw-the-line
/tuː drɔː ðə laɪn/ IELTSAcademic
idiom
To decide what is acceptable and what is not. It means you set a clear limit or boundary. It is often used when someone refuses to accept more.
- I drew the line at working weekends.
- She drew the line when he shouted at her.
- We need to draw the line here.
Adinary Nuance
Draw the line is stronger than not like or disagree with. Use it when you want to show a clear personal limit. It is close to set a boundary, but more direct and common in everyday English. It often sounds firm, especially in speech.
In other languages
- Vietnamese
- đặt giới hạn
- Spanish
- poner un límite
- Chinese
- 划清界限
- Japanese
- 線を引く
- Korean
- 선을 긋다
Etymology
This idiom comes from the image of drawing a line on the ground or paper to show a limit. It has been used in English since the 19th century.
Common phrases
draw the line at somethingwhere do you draw the line?draw a clear linecross the line
Synonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
- Is "draw the line" formal or informal?
- It is neutral, but it sounds a little more natural in speech and writing than in very formal academic text.
- What is the difference between "draw the line" and "set a boundary"?
- Both mean to set a limit. "Draw the line" is more common and direct; "set a boundary" sounds calmer and more deliberate.
- How do I use "draw the line" in a sentence?
- Use it with "at" to show the point where you will not accept more: "I draw the line at lying."
- Is "draw the line" used in business English?
- Yes, especially when someone is rejecting an unfair request or setting a firm limit.