Toe the line

usgb
phrase

Follow the rules or the standard way of doing things.

If you want to stay on this team, you have to toe the line.
Visual representation of "toe the line" - Follow the rules or the standard way of doing things

Often appears as...

  • toe the party line
  • fail to toe the line

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "toe the line"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Power Dynamics

Used when authority expects obedience, often in workplace or military.

Illustration for Power Dynamics
The soldiers were reminded to toe the line or face consequences.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Group Pressure

Indicates peer pressure to conform within a group or society.

Illustration for Group Pressure
Teenagers often feel they have to toe the line to fit in with friends.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Cultural Context

May imply suppression of personal freedom in certain cultures.

Illustration for Cultural Context
In that company, employees often have to toe the line.
Visual representation of the word "Toe the line"

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