ENGLISH
REFERENCE

cross the line

idiom
Meaning

To overstep a boundary, rule, or limit; to go too far or do something unacceptable.


Examples
SIMPLE

You really crossed the line with that rude comment.

CONTEXTUAL

He tried to be funny, but his jokes about my family definitely crossed the line.

COMPLEX

While the manager encouraged open debate, he warned the team that personal attacks would cross the line and result in immediate disciplinary action.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    blur the line

    To minimize or erode the distinction between two things.

  2. 02

    bottom line

    The summary or result; the most important information.

  3. 03

    bottom of the line

    The worst or lowest quality on the market, especially among a range of products.

  4. 04

    bright line

    A clear distinction in the context of a legal, moral, ethical, or analytical judgment.

  5. 05

    come home by weeping cross

    To return in disappointment, or in a spirit of contrition.

  6. 06

    cross my heart

    A declaration that the speaker is telling the truth.

  7. 07

    cross my heart and hope to die

    Added to a promise or a statement to show how serious one was about being honest in what one said

  8. 08

    cross of gold

    A public policy which puts the interests of the rich ahead of those of the poor.

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