on the line

Definitions

1. On a level with the eye of the observer, as of a picture hung in on a wall.
2. At risk, as in a contest or enterprise.
   figuratively
3. Currently calling on the telephone.
4. On one of the lines marked on a playing field or court; (by extension) within bounds.

Equivalents

3 more languages

Suomilinjallaviivalla

Русскийна кону́на проводе

Svenskapå spel

Examples

“The survival of the company is on the line with this project.”

“I have⟳ a stalker. My life is on the line!”

“The 40-year-old is happy to put⟳ his body on the line in other ways, swapping a mug of tea for a fan’s double⟳ pint of lager and messily necking it in one.”

“War or peace? Dictatorship or democracy? Europe’s future is on the line [title]”

“I have⟳ John on the line for you.”

“The ball was on the line but the umpire ruled it out.”

CEFR level