draw a line in the sand
Meaning(s)
1. set a limit beyond which something is unacceptable
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
draw a line in the sand and move forward
Analysis
The idiom to draw a line in the sand means to set a limit or a boundary beyond which you are not prepared to cross. When you draw a line in the sand you indicate that there are repercussions that will occur if someone fails to respect your limits or boundaries.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- There have been too many instances of work not being completed on time. It's time to draw a line in the sand and say enough is enough. If it happens again there will be repercussions.
- It's about time we put the issues we've had with each other to bed. Let's draw a line in the sand and move forward for the sake of the business.
Social Examples (Advance)
- Your father and I have done our best to support you through university but I'm drawing a line in the sand when it comes to buying you a car.
- Our neighbour next door regularly has loud parties that make it difficult to sleep. I'm drawing a line in the sand and going over there now to talk to them.