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Cross the Line

What Does "Cross the Line" Mean?

homeidiomsCross the Line
"Cross the line" is an English idiom. It means "to go beyond acceptable behavior or standards."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "cross the line" used in a sentence:
  • It's fine to have a joke, but you crossed the line with that comment.
  • He often pushes boundaries, but this time he really crossed the line.
  • Make sure you don't cross the line; there are consequences.
meaning for cross the line

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "Cross the Line" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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