ENGLISH
REFERENCE

draw the line

idiom
Meaning

To set a boundary, rule, or limit, especially on what one will tolerate.


Examples
SIMPLE

I like helping friends, but I draw the line at lending money.

CONTEXTUAL

My boss expects me to work on weekends, but I draw the line at answering emails during dinner.

COMPLEX

While he was willing to compromise on the project budget, he drew the line at sacrificing the safety standards that protected his team.

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

    cross the line

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

  6. 06

    draw a blank

    To be unable to recall a required piece of information.

  7. 07

    draw a line

    To delimit a boundary or border.

  8. 08

    draw a long bow

    To lie; to exaggerate.

© 2026 English Reference