THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Draw the line
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To set a firm limit on what you will do or allow.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- I can help with editing, but I draw the line at writing someone else’s assignment.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
I can help with editing, but I ________ at writing someone else’s assignment.
Show the answer
Draw the line — To set a firm limit on what you will do or allow.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Draw the line” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
To set a firm limit on what you will do or allow.
Compare: I can help with editing, but I draw the line at writing someone else’s assignment.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
Self-review only. Your sentence is not automatically marked, saved or submitted.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this expression when explaining a boundary, especially around something you consider unacceptable. It is conversational but also appears in serious discussions.
More examples in context
- The club drew the line at personal insults during discussions.
- Where do you draw the line between helpful advice and taking over someone’s work?
Usage note
Use draw the line at followed by a noun or an -ing form: draw the line at sharing private messages. The past form is drew the line. Naming the limit makes the expression clear.
A short conversation
A: Could you finish my whole assignment for me?
B: I can explain the question, but I draw the line at doing the work for you.
A: Then could we discuss the first step?
One more practice question
Which person draws the line at sharing a password?
A. One who firmly refuses to share it.
B. One who shares it whenever anyone asks.
Check your answer
A. Drawing the line establishes a boundary the person will not cross.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.