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Line Toes Fight In The Loop 727 Follow Rules Expected Mr

Id in_the_loop_727
Idiom TOE THE LINE
Definition to follow the rules; to do what is expected of one
Examples
  1. Mr. Kelly has survived in politics because he toes the line. He follows the policies of the majority and doesn’t try to stand out or be different.
  2. The boss didn’t want any trouble from his workers. He told them they had better toe the line or get out.
Cross-Refs

Compare to: straight and narrow

Extra Info

The expression originates from an early form of boxing, in which a line was drawn on the ground and opponents had to keep the toes of one foot on the line during their fight. Any opponent who removed his toes from the line was disqualified from the fight.

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