toʊ ðə laɪn
Work
neutral
intermediate
- Literally:
- Placing toes at a starting line
What does "toe the line" mean?
- To conform to rules or standards
- To behave according to expectations
Examples
- New employees are expected to toe the line.
- He refused to toe the company line on this issue.
- If you want to keep your job, you'd better toe the line.
Origin
From foot races where runners placed their toes at the starting line. Also from military formations where soldiers aligned their feet.
How to use it
Note: 'toe' not 'tow.' Often used about workplace or political conformity.
Similar expressions
follow rules
conform
comply
fall in line
Opposites
rebel
defy
resist
break rules
Related idioms
- hit the nail on the head
To describe exactly what is true or important
- call it a day
To stop working for the day
- have one's hands full
To be very busy with something
- learn the ropes
To learn the basics of a job or activity
- it's not rocket science
It's not difficult to understand or do
- get your act together
To organize yourself and start behaving more responsibly
Use it in a practice answer
Try "toe the line" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.