sign on the dotted line
To formalize an agreement.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“You must sign on the dotted line to finish the deal.”
“Before you sign on the dotted line, make sure you read all the terms of the contract carefully.”
“After months of difficult negotiations, the company representatives finally met to sign on the dotted line and finalize the merger.”
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barber's sign
A standing pole and two wash-balls, historically used outside barber's shops.
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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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connect the dots
To make connections in one's mind, in order to arrive at a more holistic understanding of a situation.
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cross the line
To overstep a boundary, rule, or limit; to go too far or do something unacceptable.
Last updated August 10, 2026