lines
lines — idiom
1. a school punishment in which a student must repeatedly write a specific sentence
a school punishment in which a student must repeatedly write a specific sentence chosen by the teacher, usually because of bad behaviour in the classroom.
The science teacher gave Kwame a hundred lines for talking during the exam.
pattern: 'give + person + [number] + lines + for + reason'
Ji-Yeon had to stay after class and write lines until the final bell rang.
pattern: 'had to + write lines' = obligation
Doing lines every evening taught Thabo to keep his mouth shut during lessons.
Nandini wrote 'I must not chew gum in class' fifty times as her punishment lines.
The headmaster still believed that lines were fairer than sending a child home.
- detention
a different punishment where the student stays after school instead of copying sentences
- extra homework
broader; can mean any additional schoolwork, not specifically copying a sentence
文法句型
give + [student] + lines + for + [reason]
do/write lines
get lines + for + [reason]
用法筆記
This expression is used mainly in British and Commonwealth school settings. The teacher chooses the sentence and how many times it must be copied. 'Lines' is always plural — you cannot say 'a line' to mean this punishment. Common verbs are 'do', 'write', 'give', and 'get'.
常見錯誤
lines — noun
1. a long, thin visible mark that you see or make on a surface
a long, thin visible mark that you see or make on a surface
Theo drew a straight line across the page with his new ruler.
collocation: draw a line
Thick white lines on the road tell drivers which lane to use.
plural: lines on the road
Mei-Lin traced the wavy line on the map with her finger.
The children coloured inside the lines of the flower drawing.
A dark line of ants marched across the kitchen floor.
用法筆記
Often used with adjectives describing the shape or appearance of the mark: straight line, curved line, dotted line, wavy line.
2. a row of words written or printed on a page, especially in a poem, play, or song
a row of words written or printed on a page, especially in a poem, play, or song
Takuya learned all his lines for the school play in just two days.
theatre: learn your lines
The first line of the poem reads: 'The fog comes on little cat feet.'
Amara wrote a few lines in her notebook before the teacher arrived.
Diego forgot his lines on stage and stood in silence for a moment.
The singer changed two lines of the song at the last minute.
用法筆記
In theatre and film, 'your lines' refers to the words an actor must say. 'Learn your lines' is a fixed expression.
常見錯誤
3. a row of people, vehicles, or objects waiting one behind the other for something
a row of people, vehicles, or objects waiting one behind the other for something
A long line of people waited outside the ticket office in the rain.
pattern: a line of [people/vehicles]
Kwame stood in line for twenty minutes to buy his lunch.
idiom: stand in line
The line of cars at the drive-through stretched around the corner.
Nadia asked the woman ahead of her to watch her bag while she paid.
There was a line of small children waiting to see the school nurse.
- queue
the more common word in British English for a line of waiting people
用法筆記
This sense is commonly used in both British and American English. In British English, 'queue' is also very common. The phrase 'stand in line' (American) is interchangeable with 'queue up' (British).
常見錯誤
4. a connection between two places for sending or receiving telephone calls, intern
a connection between two places for sending or receiving telephone calls, internet data, or other electronic signals
The storm damaged the phone lines, so no one could call for help.
collocation: phone line
Our broadband line went down during the important video conference.
Oliver tried to call his sister, but the line was busy all afternoon.
Hasan waited on the line for the customer service agent to answer.
The new fibre-optic lines brought fast internet to every home in the village.
- connection
a more general word for any communications link
- channel
a technical term for a specific frequency or pathway for signals
用法筆記
Frequently used with verbs like 'call', 'dial', 'connect', 'disconnect', and adjectives like 'busy', 'dead', 'open', 'direct'. 'The line went dead' means the connection was suddenly lost.
常見錯誤
5. a real or imaginary border that marks the edge of an area, or separates one thin
a real or imaginary border that marks the edge of an area, or separates one thing from another
The white line on the tennis court marks where the ball must land.
collocation: white line
Arjun knew he had crossed the line when he shouted at his best friend.
idiom: cross the line
The fence follows the property line between the two farms exactly.
It can be hard to draw a clear line between work time and family time.
Sofia stayed behind the yellow safety line on the train platform.
用法筆記
Often used figuratively to describe limits on acceptable behaviour ('cross the line'). 'Where do you draw the line?' asks at what point someone stops accepting something.
常見錯誤
6. a long thin piece of metal, usually covered with plastic, that carries electrici
a long thin piece of metal, usually covered with plastic, that carries electricity from one place to another
Birds sat on the power lines near the highway, watching the cars pass.
collocation: power line
The electrician checked the lines running through the old building.
A falling tree brought down the telephone lines across the road.
Ingrid traced the electrical line back to the broken fuse box.
The workers buried the cable lines deep under the pavement.
7. a piece of rope, cord, or string used for a practical purpose such as fastening,
a piece of rope, cord, or string used for a practical purpose such as fastening, hanging, or pulling
Lars hung his wet clothes on the washing line in the garden.
collocation: washing line
The fishing line snapped when a big fish pulled hard on it.
collocation: fishing line
Deepa tied the boat to the dock with a thick rope line.
The children jumped over the skipping line in the playground.
A strong line held the tent firmly to the ground during the storm.
用法筆記
Specific types of line are named by their function: fishing line, washing line, skipping line. 'Rope' is thicker; 'line' often implies a thinner cord.
8. a group of related items or services that a company produces or sells together a
a group of related items or services that a company produces or sells together as a set
The company introduced a new line of organic skincare products last spring.
pattern: a line of [products]
Emma designs a popular line of casual clothing for young adults.
collocation: clothing line
The hotel chain launched a budget line of smaller rooms for travellers.
Ji-Yeon manages the premium line of kitchen appliances for the company.
- range
common in British English for a set of products; 'a range of products'
- product line
the full formal term; 'line' is the shortened form
用法筆記
Commonly modified by adjectives describing price or quality: 'budget line', 'premium line', 'luxury line'. 'Product line' and 'line of products' are fixed expressions in business.
9. a particular way of thinking, behaving, or dealing with a matter
a particular way of thinking, behaving, or dealing with a matter
The teacher asked the students to follow a different line of reasoning.
pattern: line of reasoning
Noam took a firm line on the issue of classroom discipline.
collocation: take a [adjective] line
The committee agreed on a line of action to reduce costs.
Several lines of evidence point to the same conclusion.
Olga's line of questioning made the witness feel uncomfortable.
用法筆記
Used in fixed phrases: 'line of thought', 'line of reasoning', 'line of questioning', 'line of attack'. 'Take a hard/soft/firm line on something' means to adopt a particular approach.
10. a short piece of writing, such as a note or quick message sent to someone, often
a short piece of writing, such as a note or quick message sent to someone, often to give information or ask a question without a full conversation.
Sakura dropped her mother a quick line to say she had arrived safely at the airport.
phrase: 'drop a line' = send a short message
The teacher asked the students to write a few lines about their summer holiday plans.
Kwame scribbled a line on a sticky note and left it on his roommate's desk.
If you have any questions about the order, just send us a line through the website contact form.
A short handwritten line at the bottom of the letter read: 'See you in March.'
用法筆記
Common in fixed phrases: 'drop (someone) a line' (send a short written message), 'send a line' (write briefly). These phrases often appear in informal contexts.
常見錯誤
lines — noun
1. the words that a performer has to say aloud during a play, film, or television s
the words that a performer has to say aloud during a play, film, or television show.
The director asked Tamar to go over her lines one more time before the scene started.
plural: always 'lines', never 'line' for this sense
Xiaoming stayed up late memorising his lines for the school play.
collocation: memorise/learn + lines
During the performance, Valentina forgot her lines and had to look at the script.
The actor who played the king had the longest lines in the entire musical.
文法句型
learn/forget + lines
lines + from [play/film]
用法筆記
Always used in the plural form 'lines' for this meaning. A single word or sentence that an actor speaks is still called 'a line' in the singular.
常見錯誤
2. the exact words that an actor, actress, or performer must say as part of their r
the exact words that an actor, actress, or performer must say as part of their role in a play, film, or television programme.
Hana practiced her lines for three hours before the school play audition.
The lead actor forgot his lines during the second act and the audience burst out laughing.
Hugo read through his lines with the director before the cameras started rolling.
The script supervisor checked that every actor had delivered their lines correctly.
文法句型
lines + around/on + body part
fine lines
expression lines
用法筆記
Always in plural form ('lines') when referring to an actor's spoken words. Never use the singular 'line' for this meaning.
常見錯誤
3. the outer shape or contour formed by the edges of something, especially when des
the outer shape or contour formed by the edges of something, especially when describing an object's elegant or distinctive design.
The architect's sketch showed the clean lines of the proposed building against the skyline.
collocation: clean lines (simple, elegant shape)
Budi admired the flowing lines of the sports car as it curved around the corner.
This dress is popular because its simple lines make the wearer look taller and slimmer.
The artist spent hours drawing the graceful lines of the dancer's body in charcoal.
- contour
more technical; refers specifically to the curved outline of a shape.
- silhouette
focuses on the dark shape against a light background; common in fashion and design.
文法句型
lines + of + noun
sleek/clean/flowing + lines
用法筆記
Commonly used with descriptive adjectives such as 'clean', 'sleek', 'graceful', 'flowing', or 'simple' to praise a design. A 'clean line' means an uncluttered, elegant shape without unnecessary decoration.
4. a thin, raised mark or fold on a surface, such as a wrinkle on the skin, a creas
a thin, raised mark or fold on a surface, such as a wrinkle on the skin, a crease in paper or fabric, or a ridge on a textured material.
After years of working outdoors, deep lines had formed around Elena's eyes.
The old map had faint lines across it from being folded and unfolded so many times.
Theo pressed the book open, trying not to create permanent crease lines along the spine.
Fine lines on the leather sofa showed where the armrest had been used for years.
文法句型
product line
line of [products]
用法筆記
This sense describes the physical ridge or fold itself, not the process of forming it. 'Creases' and 'wrinkles' are common synonyms, but 'line' is more neutral and can apply to surfaces beyond skin (paper, fabric, leather).
常見錯誤
5. the path, route, or direction that someone or something travels along, or an est
the path, route, or direction that someone or something travels along, or an established track for moving goods or people from one place to another.
The shipping company opened a new line between Shanghai and Rotterdam last spring.
pattern: 'line between [port A] and [port B]' = shipping route
Buses on this line run every twenty minutes from the train station to the university campus.
The flight line across the Atlantic was shorter than expected because of strong tailwinds.
Emergency services set up a direct communication line between the two command centres.
文法句型
lines of + [people/things]
stand in line
wait in line
form a line
用法筆記
This sense overlaps with 'route' but often implies a scheduled or established connection. Common in transport contexts: 'bus line', 'shipping line', 'flight line', 'pipeline'.
常見錯誤
6. a state in which people or groups share the same opinion, follow the same rules,
a state in which people or groups share the same opinion, follow the same rules, or act in a coordinated manner.
The board members tried to bring their ideas into line before the final vote.
phrase: 'bring into line' = make conform
The new policy is in line with the company's commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
phrase: 'in line with' = in agreement with
Chidi's offer was out of line with what other sellers were asking for similar properties.
The two departments need to get in line on the budget proposal before presenting it to the CEO.
- agreement
A broader term for harmony of opinion; can stand alone without fixed phrases.
- conformity
More formal, emphasises following accepted rules or standards.
- disagreement
Lack of consensus or harmony between parties.
文法句型
[name] + Lines / shipping line / airline / cruise line
用法筆記
Almost always appears in fixed prepositional phrases: 'in line with' (agreeing with or matching), 'out of line' (not matching an expected standard), 'bring into line' (force to conform). Not used as a stand-alone noun for this meaning.
常見錯誤
7. the painted or drawn marks on a sports field, court, or track that show boundari
the painted or drawn marks on a sports field, court, or track that show boundaries, divisions, or playing areas.
The basketball player stepped on the sideline while trying to pass the ball to a teammate.
specific court markings: sideline, baseline, foul line
Siti kicked the ball just inside the goal line, scoring the winning point for her team.
collocation: goal line
The referee checked whether the tennis ball had landed on or outside the white line.
Runners must stay within their lane lines for the entire four-hundred-metre race.
文法句型
the + [type] line
cross the line
behind the line
用法筆記
Each sport has specific names for its lines: 'goal line' and 'sideline' in football and soccer, 'baseline' and 'foul line' in basketball, 'service line' in tennis. The word 'line' alone usually needs a sport-specific modifier.
常見錯誤
8. a real or imaginary border that marks where one area, region, or piece of land e
a real or imaginary border that marks where one area, region, or piece of land ends and another begins.
The river marks the line between the two counties on the old map.
Maya planted a row of bushes along the property line to create a natural fence.
collocation: 'property line' = boundary of owned land
The referee drew a white chalk line to show where the players could not cross.
The county line is just past the gas station on the right-hand side of the road.
文法句型
behind enemy lines
the front line
defensive lines
supply lines
用法筆記
Often appears in compound nouns like 'property line', 'county line', 'state line', 'tree line', 'snow line'. These describe the boundary of a specific type of area.
常見錯誤
9. the path, route, or direction along which someone or something moves, travels, o
the path, route, or direction along which someone or something moves, travels, or is aimed.
The power lines follow the main road for about ten kilometres before turning into the valley.
collocation: power lines (wires along a route)
Hiroshi traced the lines of the railway on the map with his finger, planning his journey.
Communication lines were cut after the storm, leaving the village without phone or internet.
The new bus lines will connect the suburbs directly to the city centre every fifteen minutes.
文法句型
lines of + [movement/communication]
along the lines of
用法筆記
This sense overlaps with 'route' or 'path' but is often used in compound nouns: 'power lines', 'railway lines', 'bus lines', 'communication lines'. The focus is on the physical or metaphorical path that something follows.
10. a point or level beyond which someone or something is not allowed to go, or a ru
a point or level beyond which someone or something is not allowed to go, or a rule that restricts what someone can do.
The manager drew a line under the whole argument and told everyone to move on.
phrase: 'draw a line under' = declare something finished
Parents need to draw the line between being strict and being too permissive with their children.
phrase: 'draw the line' = set a limit
The company has set a clear line on accepting gifts from suppliers to avoid conflicts of interest.
Ravi knew he had crossed a line when his joke made his colleague visibly upset.
- freedom
The state of not being restricted or limited.
文法句型
drop + someone + a line
write a few lines
a couple of lines
用法筆記
Almost always used in fixed phrases: 'draw the line' (set a limit), 'draw a line under' (consider something finished), 'cross a/the line' (go beyond acceptable behaviour), 'over the line' (past the limit).
常見錯誤
lines — noun
1. a set of two parallel metal rails fixed to sleepers on the ground, forming the t
a set of two parallel metal rails fixed to sleepers on the ground, forming the track along which trains run.
The children waved at the passengers from behind the fence beside the railway line.
Workers are repairing the damaged section of the train line after last night's storm.
The new high-speed rail line connects the capital city with the northern industrial region.
Level crossings allow cars to drive across the railway line safely when no train is coming.
文法句型
[plural]
用法筆記
Often used in compounds: 'rail line', 'railway line', 'train line'. The difference between 'line' (the track) and 'line' (the service/route) is usually clear from context.
常見錯誤
2. The words that a performer speaks as part of their role in a film, play, televis
The words that a performer speaks as part of their role in a film, play, television show, or other performance.
Orla practised her lines for hours before the school play audition.
verb + lines: practise / rehearse / learn lines
The actor forgot his lines during the second act and the audience laughed.
verb + lines: forget / remember lines
Hugo read through his lines with the director before filming began.
The script supervisor checked that every actor was saying the correct lines.
When the leading actress stopped mid-scene, her co-star quietly fed her the next line.
文法句型
[plural]
用法筆記
Almost always used in the plural ('lines') when referring to the full set of words an actor must speak. The singular 'line' is used when referring to one specific sentence or phrase.
常見錯誤
3. A piece of strong thin cord, rope, or string that serves a specific function suc
A piece of strong thin cord, rope, or string that serves a specific function such as tying things, hanging washing, or catching fish.
Mei-Lin hung her wet towels on the washing line behind the house.
compound: washing line / clothes line
The fisherman pulled his line out of the water and found a small trout on the hook.
compound: fishing line
Karim tied a rope to the boat and tossed the other end of the line to the dock worker.
The mountaineers secured themselves with a strong line clipped to the rock face.
文法句型
[countable]
用法筆記
When 'line' means a rope or cord, it typically refers to a specific type of cord used for a named purpose (fishing line, washing line, mooring line). The general word 'rope' or 'string' is more common for everyday objects.
常見錯誤
4. A system of wires or cables that carries telephone signals between places, allow
A system of wires or cables that carries telephone signals between places, allowing people to talk to each other over long distances.
The storm knocked down the telephone lines, so the whole village had no phone service for two days.
compound: telephone lines / phone lines
Camila tried to call her mother, but the line was busy all afternoon.
expression: the line is busy / the line is dead
A technician came to install a new phone line in Ji-Yeon's apartment last Tuesday.
There was a strange noise on the line, so Deepika hung up and called again.
- connection
More general; refers to any link that allows communication, not just telephone
- landline
A wired telephone service, distinguished from a mobile or cellular phone
- wire
Emphasises the physical cable rather than the service
文法句型
[countable]
用法筆記
Refers to both the physical wire and the connection it provides. 'On the line' means currently using the telephone connection. 'Landline' refers to a traditional wired phone service as opposed to a mobile phone.
常見錯誤
5. a smooth, confident, and often persuasive way of speaking, sometimes seen as ins
a smooth, confident, and often persuasive way of speaking, sometimes seen as insincere or too clever.
The car salesman gave the customer a smooth line about the vehicle's excellent fuel economy.
phrase: 'smooth line' = persuasive but possibly dishonest talk
Amara did not fall for his charming line about being a successful businessman from Dubai.
Politicians are often accused of handing voters a line instead of telling them the plain truth.
Don't give me that line about the dog eating your homework — I've heard it a hundred times before.
文法句型
[countable]
用法筆記
Often carries a negative connotation, implying insincerity or manipulation. Common in phrases like 'a line' (a rehearsed persuasive statement), 'give someone a line', 'smooth line'. Not used as a neutral term for speaking.
常見錯誤
6. A particular method, way of thinking, or course of action that someone follows i
A particular method, way of thinking, or course of action that someone follows in dealing with a situation.
The manager decided to take a firm line with employees who arrived late every morning.
expression: take a [adjective] line
The school follows a traditional line of teaching that emphasises reading and writing skills.
expression: line of teaching / line of thought
Nandini could not accept her colleague's line of reasoning about the budget cuts.
The government's official line on the policy is that it will create more jobs.
Several members of the committee chose to follow a different line and voted against the proposal.
文法句型
[countable]
用法筆記
Common in fixed expressions: 'take a [adjective] line', 'line of reasoning', 'line of thought', 'official line'. The 'official line' is the stated position of an organisation or government, which may differ from private beliefs.
常見錯誤
7. the series of people who have descended from a common ancestor, considered as a
the series of people who have descended from a common ancestor, considered as a family line or bloodline.
The royal family can trace its line back to the 10th century.
Mei-Lin comes from a long line of doctors — her great-grandfather, grandfather, and father all practised medicine.
phrase: 'a long line of' = a series of ancestors in the same profession
The last emperor of that dynasty died without an heir, ending the family line forever.
Family records show that the Watanabe line can be traced through the temple's historical registries.
文法句型
[countable]
usually plural with 'the'
用法筆記
Often used in the fixed phrase 'a long line of [noun]' to describe a family tradition or profession. 'Line' in this sense can refer to direct ancestry (bloodline) or a broader family tree.
常見錯誤
8. The outer shape, contour, or form of an object such as a car, building, or piece
The outer shape, contour, or form of an object such as a car, building, or piece of clothing, especially when considered as a feature of its design.
The new electric car has sleek lines that make it look fast even when it is parked.
adjective + lines: sleek lines / clean lines
The architect designed the museum with clean, simple lines and large glass windows.
collocation: clean lines / simple lines
Xiaoming admired the elegant lines of the wooden boat in the harbour.
The dress has classic lines that never go out of fashion.
- contour
Emphasises the curves and flowing shape of an object; more technical in art and design
- silhouette
The dark outline or general shape of something against a lighter background
- shape
More general; does not carry the design or aesthetic connotation of 'lines'
文法句型
[countable]
用法筆記
Describes the aesthetic quality of an object's shape. 'Clean lines' means a simple, uncluttered design. 'Sleek lines' suggests a smooth, modern, and aerodynamic appearance.
9. a sequence of related events, actions, or developments that follow one after ano
a sequence of related events, actions, or developments that follow one after another in time.
The book traces the line of events that led to the outbreak of the war in 1914.
A strange line of coincidences brought the two old friends together again after twenty years.
The film follows the same story line as the novel, but with a different ending.
Each generation adds a new chapter to the long line of scientific discoveries in this field.
The detective tried to piece together the line of events that led to the crime.
文法句型
[countable]
用法筆記
Often used in narrative contexts: 'story line' (the sequence of events in a story), 'line of events', 'line of reasoning' (a series of connected thoughts). The word 'line' here ties events together in a chronological or logical chain.
常見錯誤
10. The events or experiences that life brings to a person, seen as something that i
The events or experiences that life brings to a person, seen as something that is decided and cannot be changed.
The old saying tells us that our lines are cast by forces we cannot control.
expression: one's lines are cast / the lines are fallen
In the poem, the speaker accepts his lines with quiet dignity and no regret.
She believed that every person's lot in life follows lines written long before their birth.
文法句型
[countable]
usually 'my line' / 'your lines'
用法筆記
This sense is literary and somewhat archaic in modern everyday English. It appears most often in religious or poetic texts, and in fixed expressions such as 'the lines are fallen' (from the Bible) or 'one's lot in life'.
常見錯誤
lines — noun
1. the words an actor or actress has to say when performing in a play, a film, a te
the words an actor or actress has to say when performing in a play, a film, a television programme, or a radio show.
Sakura stayed up late every night to memorise her lines before the school play.
collocation: 'memorise/learn one's lines'
The lead actor forgot his lines and checked the script during the second act.
The director asked the cast to read through their lines together one more time.
A prompter sat beside the stage, ready to whisper forgotten lines to the cast.
文法句型
learn one's lines
forget one's lines
read one's lines
用法筆記
Almost always used in the plural — 'learn your lines', not 'learn your line'. The singular 'line' refers to a single speech or sentence an actor says.
常見錯誤
2. a task given to a student as a punishment, in which the same sentence must be wr
a task given to a student as a punishment, in which the same sentence must be written out many times, usually to improve future behaviour.
The teacher gave DeShawn a hundred lines for talking during the maths lesson.
Binyam stayed after class to write lines on the blackboard until the bell rang.
pattern: 'write lines' = punishment writing
Writing lines is an old-fashioned form of punishment that some schools still use today.
The headmaster told the boys they would write fifty lines for breaking the classroom window.
- detention
A different punishment — staying after school rather than writing sentences.
文法句型
write lines
give someone lines
用法筆記
This sense is largely British and considered old-fashioned in many modern schools. The phrase 'to write lines' is the most common pattern.
常見錯誤
3. a sequence of musical notes that form a distinct, memorable tune or melodic phra
a sequence of musical notes that form a distinct, memorable tune or melodic phrase within a piece of music.
The pianist played the opening line of the sonata with such tenderness that the audience fell silent.
The violin carries the main melodic line while the cello provides a deep harmonic foundation.
That jazz line has been stuck in my head ever since I heard it at the concert last Friday night.
The composer wrote a beautiful bass line that gives the song its distinctive groove.
文法句型
lines around + body part
lines on + face/forehead
fine lines
用法筆記
Common in music terminology: 'melodic line' (the main tune), 'bass line' (the lowest-pitched melodic sequence), 'vocal line' (the singer's melodic part). 'Line' here refers to a single strand of melody within a larger composition.
常見錯誤
4. the outer shape or smoothly curving form of an object, especially a vehicle, bui
the outer shape or smoothly curving form of an object, especially a vehicle, building, or piece of clothing, that gives it its visual character.
The new sports car has clean, flowing lines that look fast even when parked.
collocation: 'clean lines' = simple, elegant shape
The architect designed the museum with simple modern lines and lots of glass panels.
The dress follows the natural lines of the body without feeling too tight anywhere.
Customers praised the smartphone's sleek lines and ultra-thin metal casing.
- contour
More technical; refers specifically to the curved outline of a shape.
- silhouette
The dark outline or general shape seen against a lighter background.
文法句型
clean lines
sleek lines
simple lines
用法筆記
Common in design, fashion, and architecture reviews. 'Clean lines' and 'sleek lines' are very frequent collocations used as praise.
5. a particular approach, method, or direction of thought — often used in fixed phr
a particular approach, method, or direction of thought — often used in fixed phrases to compare or suggest ideas without giving full details.
If we carry on along these lines, we should finish the project before the deadline.
phrase: 'along these lines' = following this method
The second proposal was written along the same lines as the first, with minor changes.
Aisha was thinking on similar lines when she suggested hiring more staff.
The committee discussed several options along the lines of reducing costs and improving efficiency.
文法句型
along these lines
along the same lines
on similar lines
用法筆記
This sense is almost never used alone — it appears in set phrases like 'along the same lines', 'along these lines', or 'on similar lines'. These phrases signal that something is of the same general type or approach.
常見錯誤
6. a group of players who play together as a unit in a team sport, such as the offe
a group of players who play together as a unit in a team sport, such as the offensive line in American football or the forward line in hockey or soccer.
The offensive line protected the quarterback long enough for him to throw a touchdown pass.
collocation: 'offensive line' = blocking players in American football
The coach sent the first line onto the ice to start the hockey match against the defending champions.
Injuries to the defensive line forced the team to call up two替补 players from the junior squad.
The forward line worked together perfectly to score three goals in the first half of the match.
文法句型
shipping lines
air lines
cruise lines
用法筆記
In team sports, 'line' refers to a specific group of players who have assigned positions and work together as a unit. Common in American football ('offensive line', 'defensive line'), hockey ('first line', 'second line'), and soccer ('forward line', 'back line').
常見錯誤
7. a painted, chalked, or imaginary line on a sports field, court, or pitch that ma
a painted, chalked, or imaginary line on a sports field, court, or pitch that marks boundaries, divisions, or specific playing areas.
The tennis ball landed just inside the line, so the umpire called it in rather than out.
The football player crossed the goal line with the ball and scored the winning touchdown.
collocation: 'goal line' = the line marking the end of the playing area in football/soccer
Basketball players must stay behind the three-point line when attempting a long-distance shot.
The referee checked whether the cricket ball had crossed the boundary line before signalling four runs.
文法句型
front lines
behind enemy lines
defence lines
用法筆記
Every sport has its own set of named lines. Common examples: 'goal line', 'sideline', 'baseline', 'foul line', 'three-point line', 'touchline', 'end line'. These lines define the playing area and the rules of the game.
常見錯誤
8. a single complete game in the sport of bowling, consisting of ten frames in whic
a single complete game in the sport of bowling, consisting of ten frames in which a player rolls a ball to knock down pins.
Leila bowled her highest score ever in the final line of the tournament.
The team played three lines of bowling, and the highest total score would determine the winner.
In the seventh frame of the second line, Carlos rolled a strike that brought the audience to their feet.
The bowling alley charges a fixed price per line, which includes the rental of shoes.
文法句型
product line
line of + products/goods
a/the + line
用法筆記
In bowling, a 'line' is the standard unit of play — ten frames. Beginners often confuse 'line' with 'frame'; a frame is one of the ten rounds within a single line (game). 'Game' is more common in casual settings; 'line' is more technical or traditional.
常見錯誤
9. a thin, strong cord made of nylon or other material, used especially for catchin
a thin, strong cord made of nylon or other material, used especially for catching fish by attaching a hook to one end and lowering it into water.
Hiroshi cast his line into the river and waited patiently for a fish to bite.
The fishing line got tangled around a branch underwater, so Tomas cut it loose.
A strong fishing line can hold a fish weighing up to twenty kilograms without breaking.
The old nylon line snapped when Yusuf tried to pull a fish from the lake.
文法句型
fishing line
line + [verb: casts, snaps, tangles]
用法筆記
The singular 'line' is very common in fishing contexts — 'fishing line' as a material is uncountable. The plural 'lines' may refer to multiple separate cords (e.g. several fishing rods with their lines).
常見錯誤
10. a particular category, kind, or branch of something, especially when comparing o
a particular category, kind, or branch of something, especially when comparing one approach or area with another.
The detective pursued a different line of inquiry after the new evidence came to light.
pattern: 'line of + [abstract noun]' = category of approach
Several lines of research suggest that regular exercise helps prevent heart disease.
The professor explored two separate lines of argument in her lecture on climate policy.
Financial advisers typically offer different lines of service depending on the client's income level.
文法句型
of this line
different lines of + noun
line of + inquiry/thought/reasoning
用法筆記
Common in formal and academic contexts, especially in phrases like 'line of inquiry', 'line of argument', 'line of research'. The plural 'lines' refers to multiple distinct categories or approaches.
常見錯誤
lines — noun
1. a particular way of arranging, planning, or developing something — for example,
a particular way of arranging, planning, or developing something — for example, designing a house along modern lines, or organizing an event on similar lines to a previous one
The architect designed the house along clean, modern lines.
collocation: along ... lines (style)
The committee organized the festival on the same lines as the year before.
If the board agrees with this proposal, we will proceed along those lines.
The new manager wants to restructure the team along more efficient lines.
The teacher asked the students to write their essays along the lines of a short story.
文法句型
along/on these lines
on the same lines
along the lines of
用法筆記
Used almost exclusively in the fixed patterns "along (these/the same/those) lines" or "on (the same/those) lines". The singular "line" is rarely used in this sense.
常見錯誤
❗ 'We need a new lines for the project.' ✅ 'We need to think along new lines for the project.' — "along...lines" is a fixed phrase; "line" must be plural.
2. a standard unit used in printing and publishing to measure the size of type, the
a standard unit used in printing and publishing to measure the size of type, the depth of a page, or the sharpness of a printed picture
The newspaper charges fifty dollars per agate line for classified advertisements.
collocation: per line (advertising rate)
This page is set at sixty-six lines of text for each column.
The printer used a screen of one hundred thirty-three lines per inch for the photograph.
In old newspapers the type was often set at eight lines to the inch.
- pica
a specific unit for type size, about one-sixth of an inch
用法筆記
A technical term used mainly by printers, designers, and publishers. Different units exist depending on context — an "agate line" measures advertising space, while "lines per inch" measures image resolution.
3. a particular category of goods or services that a company produces or sells, dis
a particular category of goods or services that a company produces or sells, distinguished by its style, quality, or target market.
The company is launching a new line of eco-friendly cleaning products aimed at young families.
pattern: 'line of + [product]' = merchandise category
The store's budget line of kitchen appliances sold much faster than the premium range.
Tamar decided to expand her business by adding a children's clothing line to the existing adult collection.
The supermarket introduced a new line of gluten-free bread and pastries after customer demand increased.
Toyota's luxury car line competes directly with German brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
- product line
The compound form is very common in business contexts.
- range
More common in British English; refers to a set of related products.
- range
A set of different products of a particular type.
文法句型
line of + [products/services]
用法筆記
Distinguish from 'product type' (noun/8) — 'product type' categorises products by their nature (e.g. dairy products, frozen foods), while 'line' refers to a specific branded collection offered by a particular company.
常見錯誤
4. a person or thing that provides information, news, or a useful way of thinking a
a person or thing that provides information, news, or a useful way of thinking about something
A former employee gave the journalist a useful line on the company plans.
pattern: give a line on [subject]
Can you give me a line on where to find a good dentist in this neighborhood?
Dr. Amara Okafor opened up a new line of inquiry into the ancient disease through her research.
The detective got a solid line on the suspect through a late-night phone call.
文法句型
give/get a line on + [subject]
用法筆記
Common in two patterns: "give/get a line on (something)" for specific information, and "line of inquiry/thought/thinking" for a direction of intellectual exploration. Informal or neutral register.
常見錯誤
❗ 'I need line on that topic.' ✅ 'I need a line on that topic.' — requires the article "a" before "line".
5. the set of numbers that a bookmaker offers to show how much money people can win
the set of numbers that a bookmaker offers to show how much money people can win if they bet on a particular team or player in a sports event
The opening line for the Bulls game favored them by six points.
collocation: opening line
Omar checked the lines before deciding which team to bet on.
The bookmaker adjusted the line after the team captain was injured.
According to the betting line, the underdog has only a thirty percent chance of winning.
- odds
broader term used in all gambling contexts, not just sports
文法句型
the line on + [team/event]
用法筆記
Primarily American English. Used in sports betting contexts. A "point spread line" and a "money line" are two common types. The singular "line" often refers to the overall odds for one event.
6. the long working area in a restaurant kitchen where cooks prepare and arrange di
the long working area in a restaurant kitchen where cooks prepare and arrange dishes to be served to customers
The head chef shouted orders from the line during the evening rush.
collocation: on/from the line
New cooks must learn how to work the line before they become sous chefs.
pattern: work the line
The kitchen line was fully staffed for the busy Saturday evening service.
Yuta wiped down the stainless steel line after the last order went out.
- kitchen
the whole room, not just the cooking and plating area
文法句型
work the line
用法筆記
Usually preceded by "the" in professional kitchen jargon. "Working the line" means cooking in a restaurant during service. Different stations on the line include grill, saute, and pastry.
常見錯誤
❗ 'He works at the line in a famous restaurant.' ✅ 'He works the line in a famous restaurant.' — "work the line" is the fixed expression; "at the line" may be misunderstood.
7. a cord or string, often coated with chalk, that builders and carpenters use to m
a cord or string, often coated with chalk, that builders and carpenters use to mark straight lines on a surface or to check whether something is level
The carpenter snapped a chalk line across the wooden board before cutting.
collocation: chalk line
Lars used a plumb line to make sure the new wall was perfectly vertical.
collocation: plumb line
The builder stretched a line between the two corners to check the foundation.
Anika pulled the measuring line tight across the freshly poured concrete slab.
- cord
the material itself, without the measuring or leveling purpose
用法筆記
Often paired with a specific type: "chalk line" (for marking), "plumb line" (for checking vertical level), or "mason's line" (for brick-laying). "Line" here refers to the physical string, not a drawn mark.
lines — verb
1. to put a layer of paper, cloth, plastic, or other material over the inside surfa
to put a layer of paper, cloth, plastic, or other material over the inside surface of a container or piece of clothing, in order to protect it, keep it clean, or improve its appearance
Fatima always lines the baking tray with greaseproof paper before putting the cake in the oven.
pattern: line [container] with [material]
The coat is lined with thick wool to keep the wearer warm during the cold winter months.
passive: be lined with [material]
Dmitri lined the bottom of the drawer with soft felt so his tools would not scratch the wood.
Wei lined the flower basket with plastic sheeting before adding the soil and seeds.
The inside of the jewellery box is lined with red velvet to protect the rings and necklaces.
文法句型
line + [container] + with + [material]
用法筆記
Frequently used in passive voice ('be lined with') to describe the material used on the inside. The object is typically a container, piece of clothing, or enclosed space.
常見錯誤
2. to stand or be situated along the side of a road, path, or route, usually in a c
to stand or be situated along the side of a road, path, or route, usually in a continuous row — used when people, trees, or objects form a visible border on each side
Thousands of cheering fans line the parade route every year during the national holiday.
pattern: [people] line [route]
Tall palm trees line the main road that runs from the airport to the city centre.
pattern: [trees/plants] line [road/path]
Chidi watched as rows of white chairs lined both sides of the garden for the wedding ceremony.
Small colourful shops line the narrow streets of the old town, attracting tourists all year round.
Crowds of excited children line the railway tracks when the annual holiday train passes through the village.
文法句型
[crowds/trees/people] + line + [road/street/route]
用法筆記
The subject is typically a type of object or person that forms a row. When describing the state rather than an action, the passive form is more common (see sense 3).
3. to have something arranged in a row along the sides or edge, describing the appe
to have something arranged in a row along the sides or edge, describing the appearance or state of a place — for example, a pathway that has trees on both sides, or shelves that have books arranged on them
The long driveway leading to the hotel is lined with tall oak trees that provide plenty of shade.
passive: [place] is lined with [things]
Svetlana's study was lined with bookshelves from floor to ceiling on every wall.
The riverbank is lined with wooden benches where elderly residents sit and watch the boats go by.
Hiroshi noticed that the walls of the old temple were lined with ancient paintings and carved decorations.
Elena's garden path is lined with lavender bushes that fill the air with a sweet smell in summer.
- be bordered by
more formal, often used for geographical features
- be flanked by
formal, suggests something on both sides
文法句型
be lined with + [people/trees/objects]
用法筆記
Distinguish from sense 2: sense 2 focuses on the action of forming a line (active), while this sense describes the existing state or appearance (usually passive). The passive construction 'be lined with' is the most common form.
常見錯誤
4. to earn or take money, especially in a dishonest or unfair way — for example, a
to earn or take money, especially in a dishonest or unfair way — for example, a public official who secretly accepts payments in exchange for giving contracts to certain companies
The corrupt city official lined his pockets with public money meant for building new schools.
idiom: line one's pockets
Rohan discovered that the company director had been lining her pockets with funds from the retirement plan.
Journalists reported that the construction bosses lined their pockets by using cheap, unsafe materials.
Aisha refused the bribe because she did not want to line her pockets at the expense of her community.
The charity investigation found that several managers had been lining their own pockets with donated money.
- embezzle
to steal money that you are trusted to manage; a legal/financial term
- feather one's nest
a similar idiom about making oneself rich, often through a position of advantage
文法句型
line + [possessive] + pockets + (with + [money])
用法筆記
Nearly always used in the fixed expression 'line one's (own) pockets'. Almost always has a negative connotation of dishonesty or greed. The subject is usually a person in a position of trust (official, manager, director).
常見錯誤
5. to put people or objects in a straight row, one next to another or one behind an
to put people or objects in a straight row, one next to another or one behind another, so that they form an orderly line
The teacher lined the children up in two straight rows before walking them to the lunch room.
phrasal verb: line [people] up
Bjorn lined the flower pots up along the balcony ledge so they would get enough sunlight.
phrasal verb: line [objects] up
Catalina lined the chairs up in neat rows for the evening concert in the school hall.
The soldiers lined themselves up on the field according to their height before the drill began.
Kojo lined the toy cars up on his bedroom floor so that each one faced the same direction.
- scatter
to spread things in different directions instead of forming a row
文法句型
line + [things/people] + up
line up + [things/people]
用法筆記
This is the transitive sense of the phrasal verb 'line up'. The object can come before or after 'up': 'line the books up' / 'line up the books'. When the object is a pronoun, it must go between: 'line them up' (not 'line up them').
常見錯誤
6. to stand one behind another in a row, waiting for something such as a ticket, fo
to stand one behind another in a row, waiting for something such as a ticket, food, or entry to an event
Hundreds of fans lined up outside the stadium from early morning to buy tickets for the final match.
pattern: line up for [event/ticket]
The passengers lined up at the gate, waiting for their flight number to be called over the speakers.
pattern: line up at [location]
Children lined up patiently to receive their certificates at the end of the school year ceremony.
We had to line up for over an hour before the museum doors finally opened at ten o'clock.
People line up every morning at the bakery on the corner to buy fresh bread straight from the oven.
- queue up
more common in British English; same meaning
- stand in line
a phrase, not a phrasal verb; common in American English
文法句型
line up + (for + [something]) + (to + [infinitive])
用法筆記
This is the intransitive sense of 'line up' — no object is needed. 'Line up for' introduces the thing being waited for. In British English, 'queue up' or 'queue' is more common; in American English, 'line up' is the standard expression.