walk the line
To maintain an intermediate position between contrasting choices, opinions, etc.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“You must walk the line between being firm and being kind.”
“As a manager, she has to walk the line between supporting her team and meeting the company's strict goals.”
“The diplomat struggled to walk the line between honoring his country's traditions and accepting the modern reforms demanded by the public.”
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ball and Chalk
[Cockney slang]walk
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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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cake walk
Something extremely easy.
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clear one's lines
To clear the ball away from a dangerous position.
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cock of the walk
A proud or conceited person.
Last updated August 10, 2026