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cross the / a line
/kɹˈɒs ðɪ ɐ lˈaɪn/
/kɹˈɔs ðɪ ɐ lˈaɪn/
to cross the / a line
[PHRASE]What is the origin of the idiom "cross the line" and when to use it?
The idiom "cross the line" likely emerged from the concept of drawing lines or boundaries to establish acceptable behavior or standards. By crossing the line, someone is symbolically stepping over that boundary, often into territory that is considered unacceptable, offensive, or morally objectionable. It is often used to describe situations where someone's actions, words, or behavior overstep what is considered acceptable, appropriate, or morally right.
Examples
1. According to Matze, the company relies on around 600 paid and volunteer jurors, who, in small groups, vote to determine what content crosses the line.
2. But Dr. Sills says the N.F.L. saw no evidence Covid crossed the line of scrimmage.
3. Ultimately, the consent decree offered a legal shortcut to stop the R.N.C.’s poll watching operations if they crossed the line.
4. If being tracked by a beer company doesn't cross the line for you, let's see how you feel when we take it up a level.
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