# draw the line

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/draw-the-line
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

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

## Examples

- I like helping friends, but I draw the line at lending money.
- My boss expects me to work on weekends, but I draw the line at answering emails during dinner.
- While he was willing to compromise on the project budget, he drew the line at sacrificing the safety standards that protected his team.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.