lines
lines — 慣用語
1. a school punishment in which a student must repeatedly write a specific sentence
罰抄
學生因犯錯被罰重複抄寫句子的處分
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.
自然老師因為 Kwame 在考試時講話，罰他抄寫一百遍句子。
pattern: 'give + person + [number] + lines + for + reason'
Ji-Yeon had to stay after class and write lines until the final bell rang.
Ji-Yeon 放學後必須留下來抄寫句子，直到最後的鐘聲響起。
pattern: 'had to + write lines' = obligation
Doing lines every evening taught Thabo to keep his mouth shut during lessons.
每天晚上罰抄的經驗讓 Thabo 學到上課時要閉上嘴巴。
Nandini wrote 'I must not chew gum in class' fifty times as her punishment lines.
Nandini 把「我上課不可以嚼口香糖」這句話當作處罰抄了五十遍。
The headmaster still believed that lines were fairer than sending a child home.
校長仍然認為罰抄比把孩子趕回家更公平。
- 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 — 名詞
1. a long, thin visible mark that you see or make on a surface
線條；直線
物體表面上的細長標記
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.
Theo 用新的尺在紙上畫了一條直線。
collocation: draw a line
Thick white lines on the road tell drivers which lane to use.
路上的白色粗線告訴駕駛人該使用哪個車道。
plural: lines on the road
Mei-Lin traced the wavy line on the map with her finger.
Mei-Lin 用手指沿著地圖上的波浪線移動。
The children coloured inside the lines of the flower drawing.
孩子們在花朵圖畫的線條內著色。
A dark line of ants marched across the kitchen floor.
一行黑色的螞蟻列隊穿過廚房地板。
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
台詞；詩行
書面或印刷的文字行，尤指詩歌或劇本
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.
Takuya 在兩天內就學會了學校話劇的所有台詞。
theatre: learn your lines
The first line of the poem reads: 'The fog comes on little cat feet.'
那首詩的第一行寫著：「霧來了，踩著小貓的腳步。」
Amara wrote a few lines in her notebook before the teacher arrived.
Amara 在老師到來之前在筆記本上寫了幾行字。
Diego forgot his lines on stage and stood in silence for a moment.
Diego 在台上忘了台詞，沉默了片刻。
The singer changed two lines of the song at the last minute.
那位歌手在最後一刻改了兩句歌詞。
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
隊伍；排隊
等候的人或車輛排成的一列
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.
長長的一排人在雨中站在售票處外等候。
pattern: a line of [people/vehicles]
Kwame stood in line for twenty minutes to buy his lunch.
Kwame 排了二十分鐘的隊才買到午餐。
idiom: stand in line
The line of cars at the drive-through stretched around the corner.
得來速車道上的車隊一直排到街角。
Nadia asked the woman ahead of her to watch her bag while she paid.
Nadia 請排在她前面的女士在她付款時幫忙看著包包。
There was a line of small children waiting to see the school nurse.
有一排小朋友正在等候看學校護士。
- 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
線路
電話或網路通訊連線
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.
暴風雨破壞了電話線路，所以沒有人能打電話求救。
collocation: phone line
Our broadband line went down during the important video conference.
我們的寬頻線路在重要的視訊會議時斷了。
Oliver tried to call his sister, but the line was busy all afternoon.
Oliver 想打電話給他姊姊，但整個下午線路都佔線。
Hasan waited on the line for the customer service agent to answer.
Hasan 在線路上等待客服人員接聽。
The new fibre-optic lines brought fast internet to every home in the village.
新的光纖線路為村裡的每戶人家帶來了快速的網路。
- 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
界線；邊界
區分不同區域或事物的分界
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.
網球場上的白線標示出球必須落地的範圍。
collocation: white line
Arjun knew he had crossed the line when he shouted at his best friend.
Arjun 知道自己對最好的朋友大吼大叫時已經越界了。
idiom: cross the line
The fence follows the property line between the two farms exactly.
那道圍籬正好沿著兩座農場之間的地界線。
It can be hard to draw a clear line between work time and family time.
工作和家庭時間之間往往很難劃清界線。
Sofia stayed behind the yellow safety line on the train platform.
Sofia 留在火車月台上的黃色安全線後面。
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
電線；纜線
輸送電力或訊號的金屬導線
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.
鳥兒停在高速公路附近的電線上，看著車輛經過。
collocation: power line
The electrician checked the lines running through the old building.
電工檢查了貫穿老舊建築物的線路。
A falling tree brought down the telephone lines across the road.
一棵倒下的樹木拉斷了橫跨道路的電話線。
Ingrid traced the electrical line back to the broken fuse box.
Ingrid 沿著電線往回查到故障的保險絲盒。
The workers buried the cable lines deep under the pavement.
工人將電纜線深埋在人行道下方。
7. a piece of rope, cord, or string used for a practical purpose such as fastening,
繩索；釣線
用於綑綁、懸掛或拖曳的繩索
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.
Lars 把濕衣服掛在花園裡的曬衣繩上。
collocation: washing line
The fishing line snapped when a big fish pulled hard on it.
釣魚線在一条大魚用力拉扯時斷掉了。
collocation: fishing line
Deepa tied the boat to the dock with a thick rope line.
Deepa 用一條粗繩索把船繫在碼頭上。
The children jumped over the skipping line in the playground.
孩子們在操場上跳過跳繩。
A strong line held the tent firmly to the ground during the storm.
暴風雨期間，一條堅固的繩子把帳篷牢牢固定在地面上。
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
產品線；系列
公司生產或銷售的相關產品類別
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.
該公司去年春天推出了一條新的有機護膚產品線。
pattern: a line of [products]
Emma designs a popular line of casual clothing for young adults.
Emma 設計了一個受年輕人歡迎的休閒服裝系列。
collocation: clothing line
The hotel chain launched a budget line of smaller rooms for travellers.
這家連鎖飯店為旅客推出了經濟型客房系列。
Ji-Yeon manages the premium line of kitchen appliances for the company.
Ji-Yeon 負責該公司的高階廚房家電產品線。
- 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
方針；思路
思考、行為或處理問題的方式
a particular way of thinking, behaving, or dealing with a matter
The teacher asked the students to follow a different line of reasoning.
老師要求學生循著不同的推理思路來思考。
pattern: line of reasoning
Noam took a firm line on the issue of classroom discipline.
Noam 在課堂紀律問題上採取了強硬的方針。
collocation: take a [adjective] line
The committee agreed on a line of action to reduce costs.
委員會就降低成本的行動方針達成共識。
Several lines of evidence point to the same conclusion.
好幾條證據線索都指向同一個結論。
Olga's line of questioning made the witness feel uncomfortable.
Olga 的提問方向讓證人感到很不自在。
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
短箋；短信
簡短的手寫或電子訊息
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.
Sakura 傳了封簡訊給母親，告訴她自己已平安抵達機場。
phrase: 'drop a line' = send a short message
The teacher asked the students to write a few lines about their summer holiday plans.
老師要求學生寫幾行字，描述他們的暑假計畫。
Kwame scribbled a line on a sticky note and left it on his roommate's desk.
Kwame 在便利貼上匆匆寫了句話，留在室友的桌上。
If you have any questions about the order, just send us a line through the website contact form.
如果您對訂單有任何疑問，請透過網站聯絡表單寫幾句話給我們。
A short handwritten line at the bottom of the letter read: 'See you in March.'
信紙底部有一行手寫的短語寫著：「三月見。」
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 — 名詞
1. the words that a performer has to say aloud during a play, film, or television s
台詞
演員在表演中說的話
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.
導演請 Tamar 在開拍前再把她的台詞複習一遍。
plural: always 'lines', never 'line' for this sense
Xiaoming stayed up late memorising his lines for the school play.
Xiaoming 為了學校話劇熬夜背台詞。
collocation: memorise/learn + lines
During the performance, Valentina forgot her lines and had to look at the script.
演出時 Valentina 忘了台詞，不得不看劇本。
The actor who played the king had the longest lines in the entire musical.
飾演國王的演員在全齣音樂劇中台詞最多。
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
台詞；對白
演員在戲劇或影片中說的台詞
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.
Hana 為了學校話劇的試鏡，練習台詞練了好幾個小時。
The lead actor forgot his lines during the second act and the audience burst out laughing.
那位主角在第二幕忘了台詞，觀眾笑了起來。
Hugo read through his lines with the director before the cameras started rolling.
Hugo 在開拍前和導演一起讀了一遍他的台詞。
The script supervisor checked that every actor had delivered their lines correctly.
劇本指導確認每位演員都正確地說出了他們的台詞。
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
線條；輪廓
物體的外形或設計曲線
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.
建築師的草圖展現了新建築在天際線下的簡潔線條。
collocation: clean lines (simple, elegant shape)
Budi admired the flowing lines of the sports car as it curved around the corner.
Budi 看著跑車流暢的線條在街角轉彎。
This dress is popular because its simple lines make the wearer look taller and slimmer.
這件洋裝很受歡迎，因為簡潔的線條讓穿的人看起來更高挑。
The artist spent hours drawing the graceful lines of the dancer's body in charcoal.
藝術家花了數小時用炭筆描繪舞者身體的優美線條。
- 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
皺紋；摺痕
物體表面因摺疊或老化形成的細痕
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.
多年在戶外工作之後，Elena 眼睛周圍出現了深深的皺紋。
The old map had faint lines across it from being folded and unfolded so many times.
那張老舊的地圖因為反覆摺疊又攤開，布滿了淡淡的摺痕。
Theo pressed the book open, trying not to create permanent crease lines along the spine.
Theo 把書翻開，盡量不讓書脊出現永久性的摺痕。
Fine lines on the leather sofa showed where the armrest had been used for years.
皮沙發扶手上被使用了多年的地方，出現了一道道細紋。
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
路線；航線
運輸或通訊的固定路徑
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.
這家航運公司去年春天開通了一條上海到鹿特丹的新航線。
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.
這條路線的公車每二十分鐘一班，從火車站開往大學校園。
The flight line across the Atlantic was shorter than expected because of strong tailwinds.
由於強勁的順風，飛越大西洋的航線比預期的要短。
Emergency services set up a direct communication line between the two command centres.
緊急服務部門在兩個指揮中心之間設立了一條直接的通訊線路。
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,
一致；協調
狀態一致或符合標準
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.
董事會成員試圖在最終投票前統一意見。
phrase: 'bring into line' = make conform
The new policy is in line with the company's commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
這項新政策符合公司減少碳排放的承諾。
phrase: 'in line with' = in agreement with
Chidi's offer was out of line with what other sellers were asking for similar properties.
Chidi 的出價與其他賣家對類似房產的開價不一致。
The two departments need to get in line on the budget proposal before presenting it to the CEO.
兩個部門需要在向執行長提交預算提案之前達成一致。
- 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
邊線；界線
運動場地畫出的標記線
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.
籃球球員試圖傳球給隊友時踩到了邊線。
specific court markings: sideline, baseline, foul line
Siti kicked the ball just inside the goal line, scoring the winning point for her team.
Siti 把球剛好踢進球門線內，為球隊贏得了致勝分。
collocation: goal line
The referee checked whether the tennis ball had landed on or outside the white line.
裁判檢查網球是否落在白線內或線外。
Runners must stay within their lane lines for the entire four-hundred-metre race.
跑者必須在整場四百公尺比賽中留在自己的跑道線內。
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
界線；邊界線
區分區域或土地的分界
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.
這條河在地圖上標示著兩個郡之間的界線。
Maya planted a row of bushes along the property line to create a natural fence.
Maya 沿著地界種了一排灌木，形成一道天然的圍籬。
collocation: 'property line' = boundary of owned land
The referee drew a white chalk line to show where the players could not cross.
裁判用白色粉筆畫了一條線，標明選手不可越過的範圍。
The county line is just past the gas station on the right-hand side of the road.
郡界就在加油站過去一點的路右側。
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
路線；管道
運輸或通訊的路徑方向
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.
電線沿著主要道路延伸約十公里，然後轉入山谷。
collocation: power lines (wires along a route)
Hiroshi traced the lines of the railway on the map with his finger, planning his journey.
Hiroshi 用手指在地圖上描出鐵路路線，規劃他的旅程。
Communication lines were cut after the storm, leaving the village without phone or internet.
暴風雨後通訊線路中斷，村莊失去了電話和網路。
The new bus lines will connect the suburbs directly to the city centre every fifteen minutes.
新的公車路線將把郊區直接連接到市中心，每十五分鐘一班。
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
界線；限制
不應超越的範圍或約束
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.
經理為整個爭論畫下了句點，要求大家繼續前進。
phrase: 'draw a line under' = declare something finished
Parents need to draw the line between being strict and being too permissive with their children.
父母需要在嚴格和過度放任之間劃清界線。
phrase: 'draw the line' = set a limit
The company has set a clear line on accepting gifts from suppliers to avoid conflicts of interest.
公司對於接受供應商禮物訂立了明確的規範，以避免利益衝突。
Ravi knew he had crossed a line when his joke made his colleague visibly upset.
Ravi 意識到他的笑話越界了，因為他的同事明顯感到不舒服。
- 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 — 名詞
1. a set of two parallel metal rails fixed to sleepers on the ground, forming the t
鐵路線；鐵軌
火車行駛用的金屬軌道
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.
孩子們從鐵軌旁的圍籬後面，向火車上的乘客揮手。
Workers are repairing the damaged section of the train line after last night's storm.
工人們正在修復昨晚暴風雨過後受損的鐵路路段。
The new high-speed rail line connects the capital city with the northern industrial region.
這條新的高速鐵路連接了首都與北方的工業區。
Level crossings allow cars to drive across the railway line safely when no train is coming.
平交道讓汽車在沒有火車來的時候，能夠安全地穿越鐵路線。
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
台詞；對白
演員在演出中說的話
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.
Orla 為了學校話劇的試鏡，練習台詞練了好幾個小時。
verb + lines: practise / rehearse / learn lines
The actor forgot his lines during the second act and the audience laughed.
那位演員在第二幕忘了台詞，觀眾笑了起來。
verb + lines: forget / remember lines
Hugo read through his lines with the director before filming began.
Hugo 在開拍前和導演一起讀了一遍他的台詞。
The script supervisor checked that every actor was saying the correct lines.
劇本指導確認每位演員都說對了台詞。
When the leading actress stopped mid-scene, her co-star quietly fed her the next line.
當女主角在表演中停頓下來時，她的搭檔小聲地提示她下一句台詞。
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
繩；線；索
用於特定用途的繩索或細繩
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.
Mei-Lin 把濕毛巾掛在屋後的曬衣繩上。
compound: washing line / clothes line
The fisherman pulled his line out of the water and found a small trout on the hook.
漁夫從水裡拉起釣線，發現鉤子上有一條小鱒魚。
compound: fishing line
Karim tied a rope to the boat and tossed the other end of the line to the dock worker.
Karim 把繩子繫在船上，將另一端扔給碼頭工人。
The mountaineers secured themselves with a strong line clipped to the rock face.
登山者用一條堅固的繩索將自己固定在岩壁上。
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
電話線；線路
傳送電話訊號的電線或纜線
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.
暴風雨吹倒了電話線，全村兩天都沒有電話服務。
compound: telephone lines / phone lines
Camila tried to call her mother, but the line was busy all afternoon.
Camila 想打電話給母親，但整個下午線路都佔線。
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.
上週二，一名技術人員來Ji-Yeon 的公寓安裝新的電話線路。
There was a strange noise on the line, so Deepika hung up and called again.
電話那頭傳來奇怪的聲音，Deepika 便掛斷後重撥了一次。
- 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
說詞；口才
流暢且有說服力的說話方式
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.
汽車業務員對顧客天花亂墜地說了一番關於車輛優異油耗的好聽話。
phrase: 'smooth line' = persuasive but possibly dishonest talk
Amara did not fall for his charming line about being a successful businessman from Dubai.
Amara 沒有上當，並不相信他自稱是來自杜拜的成功商人那套說詞。
Politicians are often accused of handing voters a line instead of telling them the plain truth.
政治人物常常被指責對選民說一套好聽話，而不是實話實說。
Don't give me that line about the dog eating your homework — I've heard it a hundred times before.
別跟我說那套狗吃了你作業的藉口——我已經聽過上百次了。
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
方針；路線
處理問題的特定方法或思路
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.
經理決定對每天早到遲到的員工採取強硬措施。
expression: take a [adjective] line
The school follows a traditional line of teaching that emphasises reading and writing skills.
這所學校遵循傳統的教學路線，強調讀寫能力。
expression: line of teaching / line of thought
Nandini could not accept her colleague's line of reasoning about the budget cuts.
Nandini 無法接受同事關於預算刪減的推理思路。
The government's official line on the policy is that it will create more jobs.
政府對此政策的官方立場是，它將創造更多就業機會。
Several members of the committee chose to follow a different line and voted against the proposal.
委員會中有幾名成員選擇了不同的路線，投票反對該提案。
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
家系；血統
同一祖先的家族世系
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.
這個王室家族的家系可以追溯到十世紀。
Mei-Lin comes from a long line of doctors — her great-grandfather, grandfather, and father all practised medicine.
Mei-Lin 出身醫學世家——她的曾祖父、祖父和父親都是醫生。
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.
那個朝代的最後一位皇帝沒有子嗣而駕崩，家族血脈就此斷絕。
Family records show that the Watanabe line can be traced through the temple's historical registries.
家族記錄顯示，渡邊家的世系可以透過寺廟的歷史登記簿追溯。
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
設計線條
物體外形的設計線條
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.
這款新型電動車線條流暢，即使停著也看起來速度感十足。
adjective + lines: sleek lines / clean lines
The architect designed the museum with clean, simple lines and large glass windows.
建築師以簡潔俐落的線條和大片玻璃窗來設計這座博物館。
collocation: clean lines / simple lines
Xiaoming admired the elegant lines of the wooden boat in the harbour.
Xiaoming 讚賞港口那艘木船的優美線條。
The dress has classic lines that never go out of fashion.
這件洋裝線條經典，永遠不會退流行。
- 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
系列；脈絡
按時間順序發生的一連串事件
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.
這本書追溯了導致 1914 年戰爭爆發的一系列事件。
A strange line of coincidences brought the two old friends together again after twenty years.
一連串奇妙的巧合讓兩位老朋友在二十年後重逢。
The film follows the same story line as the novel, but with a different ending.
這部電影的情節與小說相同，但結局不同。
Each generation adds a new chapter to the long line of scientific discoveries in this field.
每一代人都在這個領域漫長的科學發現史上增添了新篇章。
The detective tried to piece together the line of events that led to the crime.
偵探試圖拼湊出導致犯罪的那一連串事件。
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
命運；天命
人生中註定發生的事件
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.
古諺告訴我們，人的命運是由我們無法掌控的力量所決定的。
expression: one's lines are cast / the lines are fallen
In the poem, the speaker accepts his lines with quiet dignity and no regret.
在詩中，說話者安靜而尊嚴地接受了自己的命運，毫無怨言。
She believed that every person's lot in life follows lines written long before their birth.
她相信每個人的際遇早在出生之前就已寫好了。
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 — 名詞
1. the words an actor or actress has to say when performing in a play, a film, a te
演出台詞
演員在戲劇或電影中說的話
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.
Sakura 為了學校話劇熬夜背台詞。
collocation: 'memorise/learn one's lines'
The lead actor forgot his lines and checked the script during the second act.
那位主角忘了台詞，第二幕時只好查看劇本。
The director asked the cast to read through their lines together one more time.
導演要求全體演員再一起念一遍台詞。
A prompter sat beside the stage, ready to whisper forgotten lines to the cast.
一名提詞員坐在舞台旁，準備小聲提醒演員忘記的台詞。
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
抄寫處罰
在學校罰寫句子多次的懲罰
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.
DeShawn 因為在數學課上講話，被老師罰寫一百遍句子。
Binyam stayed after class to write lines on the blackboard until the bell rang.
Binyam 放學後必須留下來，在黑板上罰寫句子直到鈴響。
pattern: 'write lines' = punishment writing
Writing lines is an old-fashioned form of punishment that some schools still use today.
罰寫是一種傳統的懲罰方式，至今仍有一些學校在使用。
The headmaster told the boys they would write fifty lines for breaking the classroom window.
校長告訴那些男孩，打破教室窗戶要罰寫五十遍句子。
- 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
旋律；樂句
構成曲調的一串音符
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.
鋼琴家以極其溫柔的情感彈奏了奏鳴曲的開頭樂句，全場鴉雀無聲。
The violin carries the main melodic line while the cello provides a deep harmonic foundation.
小提琴演奏主旋律線，大提琴則提供深沉的和聲基礎。
That jazz line has been stuck in my head ever since I heard it at the concert last Friday night.
自從上週五晚上在音樂會上聽到那段爵士樂旋律之後，就一直在我腦中揮之不去。
The composer wrote a beautiful bass line that gives the song its distinctive groove.
作曲家創作了優美的低音線條，賦予了這首歌獨特的韻律感。
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
線條造型
物體外部的流暢形狀或輪廓
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.
這款新跑車擁有簡潔流暢的線條，即使停著也給人速度感。
collocation: 'clean lines' = simple, elegant shape
The architect designed the museum with simple modern lines and lots of glass panels.
建築師以簡約現代的線條和大量的玻璃面板來設計博物館。
The dress follows the natural lines of the body without feeling too tight anywhere.
這件洋裝順著身體的自然線條剪裁，但不會讓人覺得太緊。
Customers praised the smartphone's sleek lines and ultra-thin metal casing.
顧客們稱讚這款智慧型手機的流暢線條和超薄金屬外殼。
- 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
思路；方向
處理事情或思考的方式
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.
如果我們繼續沿著這個方向進行，應該能在期限前完成專案。
phrase: 'along these lines' = following this method
The second proposal was written along the same lines as the first, with minor changes.
第二份提案與第一份思路相同，只有少許修改。
Aisha was thinking on similar lines when she suggested hiring more staff.
Aisha 往類似方向思考，建議增聘人手。
The committee discussed several options along the lines of reducing costs and improving efficiency.
委員會討論了幾個方案，方向不外乎是降低成本和提高效率。
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
球員陣容；鋒線
團隊運動中一起上場的一組球員
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.
進攻鋒線成功保護了四分衛，讓他能夠傳出達陣球。
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.
教練派出第一組鋒線陣容上冰，迎戰衛冕冠軍。
Injuries to the defensive line forced the team to call up two替补 players from the junior squad.
防守鋒線的傷兵迫使球隊從青年隊徵召了兩名替補球員。
The forward line worked together perfectly to score three goals in the first half of the match.
前鋒線完美配合，在上半場攻入了三球。
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
場地線；邊線
運動場上劃出的界線或標記
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.
網球正好落在線內，所以裁判判定界內得分。
The football player crossed the goal line with the ball and scored the winning touchdown.
足球員帶球越過球門線，達陣贏得比賽。
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.
籃球員在投三分球時必須站在三分線以外。
The referee checked whether the cricket ball had crossed the boundary line before signalling four runs.
裁判查看了板球是否越過邊界線，然後判定得四分。
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
一局；一場
保齡球中十格為一局的比賽
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.
Leila 在比賽的最後一局打出了個人最高分。
The team played three lines of bowling, and the highest total score would determine the winner.
這支隊伍打了三局保齡球，總分最高者獲勝。
In the seventh frame of the second line, Carlos rolled a strike that brought the audience to their feet.
在第二局的第七格，Carlos 打出了全倒，觀眾紛紛站起來歡呼。
The bowling alley charges a fixed price per line, which includes the rental of shoes.
這家保齡球館按局收費，費用包含租鞋。
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
釣線
用來釣魚的細而堅韌的繩索
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.
Hiroshi 將釣線拋進河裡，耐心等待魚兒上鉤。
The fishing line got tangled around a branch underwater, so Tomas cut it loose.
釣線在水底的樹枝上纏住了，Tomas 只好把它割斷。
A strong fishing line can hold a fish weighing up to twenty kilograms without breaking.
一條強韌的釣線可以撐起重達二十公斤的魚而不斷裂。
The old nylon line snapped when Yusuf tried to pull a fish from the lake.
Yusuf 試圖從湖中拉起一條魚時，老舊的尼龍釣線斷了。
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
範疇；類型
思考或研究的特定類別
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.
偵探在取得新證據後，展開了另一條調查方向。
pattern: 'line of + [abstract noun]' = category of approach
Several lines of research suggest that regular exercise helps prevent heart disease.
數個研究領域都指出，規律運動有助於預防心臟疾病。
The professor explored two separate lines of argument in her lecture on climate policy.
教授在氣候政策講座中探討了兩種不同的論證方向。
Financial advisers typically offer different lines of service depending on the client's income level.
理財顧問通常會根據客戶的收入水準，提供不同類別的服務。
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 — 名詞
1. a particular way of arranging, planning, or developing something — for example,
方針；方式
規劃或發展事物的特定方式
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.
建築師以簡浔現代的風格設計了這棚房子。
collocation: along ... lines (style)
The committee organized the festival on the same lines as the year before.
委員會依照與去年同樣的模式籌辦了這場節慶。
If the board agrees with this proposal, we will proceed along those lines.
如果董事會同意這項提案，我們就按照那個方向進行。
The new manager wants to restructure the team along more efficient lines.
新主管希望以更高效率的方式重組團隊。
The teacher asked the students to write their essays along the lines of a short story.
老師要求學生按照短篇故事的風格來寫作文。
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
印刷單位
印刷排版用的計量單位
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.
這家報紙對分類廣告每行收費五十美元。
collocation: per line (advertising rate)
This page is set at sixty-six lines of text for each column.
這個版面每欄設定六十六行文字。
The printer used a screen of one hundred thirty-three lines per inch for the photograph.
印刷師傅用每英寸一百三十三線的網點來印這張照片。
In old newspapers the type was often set at eight lines to the inch.
舊報紙的字體通常設定為每英寸八行。
- 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
商品系列；產品線
公司銷售的特定商品類型
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.
該公司推出了一系列新的環保清潔用品，目標客群是年輕家庭。
pattern: 'line of + [product]' = merchandise category
The store's budget line of kitchen appliances sold much faster than the premium range.
這家店的平價廚房家電系列，銷售速度遠比高階產品快。
Tamar decided to expand her business by adding a children's clothing line to the existing adult collection.
Tamar 決定擴展業務，在現有成人系列之外新增一條童裝產品線。
The supermarket introduced a new line of gluten-free bread and pastries after customer demand increased.
這家超市在顧客需求增加後，引進了一系列新的無麩質麵包和糕點。
Toyota's luxury car line competes directly with German brands such as BMW and Mercedes-Benz.
Toyota 的豪華車系列直接與 BMW 和賓士等德國品牌競爭。
- 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
訊息來源
提供資訊或線索的人或事物
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.
一名前員工向記者提供了關於公司計劃的有用線索。
pattern: give a line on [subject]
Can you give me a line on where to find a good dentist in this neighborhood?
你能不能給我一些線索，告訴我這附近哪裡有好牙醫？
Dr. Amara Okafor opened up a new line of inquiry into the ancient disease through her research.
Amara Okafor 博士的研究為這種古老疾病開啟了一個全新的探究方向。
The detective got a solid line on the suspect through a late-night phone call.
偵探透過一通深夜的電話得到了關於嫌疑犯的可靠線索。
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
賠率；盤口
莊家為體育賽事開出的賭博賠率
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.
公牛隊比賽的開盤讓六分。
collocation: opening line
Omar checked the lines before deciding which team to bet on.
Omar 在決定押哪一隊之前先查看了賠率。
The bookmaker adjusted the line after the team captain was injured.
球隊隊長受傷後，莊家調整了賠率。
According to the betting line, the underdog has only a thirty percent chance of winning.
根據賭盤賠率，弱隊只有三成的勝算。
- 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
出餐檯；料理線
專業廚房烹調和擺盤的工作區域
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.
主廚在晚餐尖峰時刻從出餐檯大聲下達指令。
collocation: on/from the line
New cooks must learn how to work the line before they become sous chefs.
新來的廚師必須先學會如何站上料理線，才能成為副主廚。
pattern: work the line
The kitchen line was fully staffed for the busy Saturday evening service.
廚房料理線在週六晚間忙碌的時段人手充足。
Yuta wiped down the stainless steel line after the last order went out.
Yuta 在最後一道菜送出後，擦拭了不鏽鋼料理檯。
- 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
測量線；墨線
建築或木工用來標記直線的繩索
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.
木匠在木板上彈了一條墨線，然後才開始切割。
collocation: chalk line
Lars used a plumb line to make sure the new wall was perfectly vertical.
Lars 用鉛垂線來確認新牆壁是否完全垂直。
collocation: plumb line
The builder stretched a line between the two corners to check the foundation.
建築工人將線拉緊在兩個角落之間，以檢查地基是否平整。
Anika pulled the measuring line tight across the freshly poured concrete slab.
Anika 把測量線拉緊，橫越剛灘好的混凝土板。
- 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 — 動詞
1. to put a layer of paper, cloth, plastic, or other material over the inside surfa
內襯；鋪墊
在容器或衣物內側鋪上保護層
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.
Fatima 總是在烤盤上鋪上防油紙，然後才把蛋糕放進烤箱。
pattern: line [container] with [material]
The coat is lined with thick wool to keep the wearer warm during the cold winter months.
這件外套內襯了厚羊毛，讓穿著的人在寒冷的冬天保持溫暖。
passive: be lined with [material]
Dmitri lined the bottom of the drawer with soft felt so his tools would not scratch the wood.
Dmitri 在抽屜底部鋪上軟氈，以免工具刮傷木頭。
Wei lined the flower basket with plastic sheeting before adding the soil and seeds.
Wei 在花籃內側鋪上塑膠布，然後才加入土壤和種子。
The inside of the jewellery box is lined with red velvet to protect the rings and necklaces.
這個珠寶盒的內部襯了紅色天鵝絨，用來保護戒指和項鍊。
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
沿…排列
沿著道路或路線兩側站或排列
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.
每年國慶日，成千上萬的熱情粉絲沿著遊行路線兩旁站立。
pattern: [people] line [route]
Tall palm trees line the main road that runs from the airport to the city centre.
高大的棕櫚樹排列在從機場通往市中心的主要道路兩旁。
pattern: [trees/plants] line [road/path]
Chidi watched as rows of white chairs lined both sides of the garden for the wedding ceremony.
Chidi 看到花園走道兩側整齊排列著一排排白色椅子，準備舉行婚禮。
Small colourful shops line the narrow streets of the old town, attracting tourists all year round.
色彩繽紛的小店鋪排列在舊城區狹窄的街道兩旁，整年吸引遊客。
Crowds of excited children line the railway tracks when the annual holiday train passes through the village.
當年度節日列車駛過村莊時，一群興奮的孩子沿著鐵軌兩旁站立。
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
兩旁有…
描述某處兩側有特定事物排列
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.
通往飯店的長車道兩旁種滿了高大的橡樹，提供了充足的樹蔭。
passive: [place] is lined with [things]
Svetlana's study was lined with bookshelves from floor to ceiling on every wall.
Svetlana 的書房從地板到天花板，每一面牆都排滿了書架。
The riverbank is lined with wooden benches where elderly residents sit and watch the boats go by.
河岸兩旁擺放著木製長椅，年長的居民們坐在那裡觀看船隻來來往往。
Hiroshi noticed that the walls of the old temple were lined with ancient paintings and carved decorations.
Hiroshi 注意到那座古老寺廟的牆壁上排列著古代的畫作和雕刻裝飾。
Elena's garden path is lined with lavender bushes that fill the air with a sweet smell in summer.
Elena 的花園小徑兩旁種滿了薰衣草叢，夏天散發著甜美的香氣。
- 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
中飽私囊
以不正當手段牟取錢財
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.
那位腐敗的市政府官員把原本要用來蓋新學校的公款中飽私囊。
idiom: line one's pockets
Rohan discovered that the company director had been lining her pockets with funds from the retirement plan.
Rohan 發現公司主管一直在從退休金計畫中中飽私囊。
Journalists reported that the construction bosses lined their pockets by using cheap, unsafe materials.
記者報導指出，那些建築商老闆使用廉價又不安全的材料來中飽私囊。
Aisha refused the bribe because she did not want to line her pockets at the expense of her community.
Aisha 拒絕了這筆賄賂，因為她不想犧牲社區的利益來中飽私囊。
The charity investigation found that several managers had been lining their own pockets with donated money.
慈善機構的調查發現，有幾位主管一直在用捐贈的款項中飽私囊。
- 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
排好；排列
將人或物排成整齊的一行
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.
老師讓孩子們排成兩列直行，然後帶他們走向餐廳。
phrasal verb: line [people] up
Bjorn lined the flower pots up along the balcony ledge so they would get enough sunlight.
Bjorn 把花盆沿著陽台邊緣排好，讓它們能夠獲得充足的陽光。
phrasal verb: line [objects] up
Catalina lined the chairs up in neat rows for the evening concert in the school hall.
Catalina 把椅子排成整齊的幾排，為學校禮堂的晚間音樂會做準備。
The soldiers lined themselves up on the field according to their height before the drill began.
士兵們在操場上按身高排好，然後才開始操練。
Kojo lined the toy cars up on his bedroom floor so that each one faced the same direction.
Kojo 把他的玩具車在臥室地板上排好，讓每一輛都朝同一個方向。
- 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
排隊
排成一列等候某事物
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.
數百名粉絲一大早就排在體育館外面，等著購買決賽的門票。
pattern: line up for [event/ticket]
The passengers lined up at the gate, waiting for their flight number to be called over the speakers.
乘客在登機門前排起隊伍，等待廣播呼叫他們的航班號碼。
pattern: line up at [location]
Children lined up patiently to receive their certificates at the end of the school year ceremony.
孩子們耐心地排隊，等著在學年結業典禮上領取證書。
We had to line up for over an hour before the museum doors finally opened at ten o'clock.
我們排了一個多小時的隊，博物館的門終於在十點鐘打開了。
People line up every morning at the bakery on the corner to buy fresh bread straight from the oven.
每天早上，人們都在街角麵包店門口排隊購買剛出爐的新鮮麵包。
- 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.