Example
“The negotiators held the line and refused to remove the safety requirement.”
Dictionary details
Related idioms
Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.
fall in line
CEFR B1to obey or accept the rules and expectations set by a group or authority
Neutral
sign on the dotted line
CEFR B1to commit yourself formally by signing an agreement
Neutral
drop someone a line
CEFR B1to get in touch by sending a short note, message, or email
Neutral
hold court
CEFR B2dominate the attention and conversation of a social gathering
Neutral
under lock and key
CEFR B1kept securely locked away so that access or escape is prevented
Neutral
up to no good
CEFR B1engaged in behavior that is mischievous, dishonest, or otherwise wrong
Informal
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.