Draw the line

Meaning

The idiom "draw the line" means to set a limit or boundary, usually when something has gone too far. It can also mean to refuse to accept or tolerate something that is unacceptable or goes beyond what someone is willing to tolerate.

Usage

• I have reached my limit and cannot take any more criticism without drawing the line.
• He was extremely rude, but I couldn't tolerate it and had to draw the line.
• The company has been cutting corners for years, but this time they crossed the line with their latest product.
• She always puts her needs before others, but this time she went too far and drew the line with her family.
• I have never been a fan of extreme sports, but when they started jumping off cliffs without ropes, I had to draw the line. The usage of "draw the line" can vary depending on the context. It can be used in a variety of situations where someone has gone too far or crossed a limit that cannot be tolerated. In some cases, it may refer to a physical boundary or limit, while in others, it may refer to an emotional or psychological limit.

Roots and History

The idiom "draw the line" dates back to at least the 17th century. The earliest known use of the phrase is found in a collection of proverbs published in 1683. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has remained relatively consistent, but its usage may have evolved to reflect changes in society and culture.

Synonyms in English

• Set a limit
• Have my back against the wall
• Be at my wit's end
• Reach the breaking point
• Hit rock bottom

Synonyms in other languages

• 歉意的 (Japanese) - expressing regret
• 不興趣的 (Mandarin Chinese) - showing disinterest
• 非常恐怖的 (Spanish) - extremely frightening
• نرغلية (Arabic) - meaningless or pointless

Similar Idioms

• dig heels in

• drain the swamp

• doldrums