English idiom

fall in line

Register · Neutral CEFR B1

Post

Figurative meaning

to obey or accept the rules and expectations set by a group or authority

Word picture

A person joins an orderly line and moves in the same direction as everyone else.

Example

“Most members fell in line after the committee issued its final decision.”

Dictionary details

Component words

fall line

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

hold the line

to maintain a position, decision, or principle despite pressure

sign on the dotted line

to commit yourself formally by signing an agreement

drop someone a line

to get in touch by sending a short note, message, or email

fall by the wayside

be abandoned, neglected, or fail before completion

fall on deaf ears

to be ignored without producing any response or acknowledgment

under lock and key

kept securely locked away so that access or escape is prevented

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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