cross the line
To overstep a boundary, rule, or limit; to go too far or do something unacceptable.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“You really crossed the line with that rude comment.”
“He tried to be funny, but his jokes about my family definitely crossed the line.”
“While the manager encouraged open debate, he warned the team that personal attacks would cross the line and result in immediate disciplinary action.”
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blur the line
To minimize or erode the distinction between two things.
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bottom line
The summary or result; the most important information.
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bottom of the line
The worst or lowest quality on the market, especially among a range of products.
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bright line
A clear distinction in the context of a legal, moral, ethical, or analytical judgment.
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clear one's lines
To clear the ball away from a dangerous position.
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come home by weeping cross
To return in disappointment, or in a spirit of contrition.
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cross my heart
A declaration that the speaker is telling the truth.
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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
Last updated August 10, 2026