red line
The term "red line" often signifies a critical boundary or limit that should not be crossed, with its origins in various contexts including sports, politics, and editing.
Definition
B2General
(figurative)A boundary or limit which, if crossed, will trigger a significant response or consequence.
Example
- The company made it clear that any breach of the red line would result in termination.
- Crossing this red line could lead to severe penalties.
B2Ice Hockey
(technical, sports)A line on the rink that divides it into two equal halves, used to help regulate play.
Example
- The puck must completely cross the red line before it is considered in play.
C1Politics and International Relations
(formal, technical)A clear limit or threshold that, if crossed, would trigger a strong response, often implying potential military action.
Example
- The country's leader declared that any attack on their territory would be a red line.
B2Editing and Proofreading
(technical)A mark made with red ink or pencil to indicate errors or important information in a document.
Example
- The editor drew a red line through the incorrect sentence.
C1Economics
(historical, formal)The practice of denying services, particularly loans, to residents of certain areas based on racial or economic discrimination.
Example
- Redlining was a discriminatory practice that affected many communities.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "red line":
green linered routelow lineplain linetop linethin blue linebattle linewater linebar lineline gunenemy linered zonecross the linered bandgoal lineback linecrossing the linedouble yellow linepolice linedividing linebody lineloop linescare linehard linesledger linered lightline of firered boxred flagtrim linedown linerailway linefall linetear lineon the lineend of the linefinish linered carblue linksecond lineup linered ballforward lineend linebright-line rulesupply linecounty linefoul linehog linered heatline scansnow linered centbreast linered inkbaulk line