English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
On the line
Meaning
The idiom "on the line" refers to a person who is directly affected or involved in something, or someone who is immediately available to answer questions or participate in discussions related to a particular topic. It can also mean being committed to a course of action or decision.
Usage
- The reporter was on the line for an exclusive interview with the celebrity.
- I need to speak to my boss directly, but he's always on the line with other meetings.
- The company made a big announcement that affected all employees, and we were left wondering what would happen next.
- As much as I wanted to avoid getting involved in the conflict, I knew I had to be on the line to help resolve it.
- When making a decision, I like to weigh all my options carefully before committing to one choice.
Roots and History
The idiom "on the line" has been used since at least the early 20th century in English literature. Its earliest known use was in the poem "Road Not Taken" by Robert Frost, published in 1916. The phrase appears in the second stanza of the poem: "Two roads diverged in a yellow wood, / And sorry I could not travel both / And be one traveler, long I stood / And looked down one as far as I could / To where it bent in the undergrowth." The phrase has since been used in various forms throughout history, including its use as a political slogan during presidential campaigns. For example, during his first campaign in 1968, Senator Richard Nixon famously said, "I am not a panderer who will go on the line to get votes." This statement suggested that he was willing to make difficult decisions and not compromise his principles for popularity.
Synonyms in English
- Directly affected or involved
- Immediately available
- Committed to a course of action or decision
- On board with something
- In the loop
Synonyms in other languages
- Spanish: "en línea" (directly on line)
- French: "à l'aise" (easy)
- German: "zutreffend" (perfect)
- Italian: "conveniente" (convenient)
- Japanese: "簡単" (simple)