idiom
Toe the line
TOH thuh LYN
/toʊ ðə laɪn/Listen
Hear it in a clear American voice. Slow it down to catch each syllable.
Syllable breakdown
toetheline
Dictionary meaning
To conform to a rule, standard, or authority; to behave in accordance with what is expected or required.
Examples
- New civil servants quickly learn they must toe the line in how they communicate with ministers.
- The party rebels were warned to toe the line or face deselection.
Common mispronunciations
Often misspelled as 'tow the line'
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