on the line
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on the line
1. In a state of jeopardy or uncertainty. I'm afraid that my scholarship is on the line now that I've been accused of plagiarizing a paper.
2. Speaking or waiting on the telephone. Mr. Parker, when you're ready, Louise in Sales is on the line. I've been on the line for an hour, and still no one has answered.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2022 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
on the line
If something such as your reputation, your job, or your life is on the line, there is a risk that you will lose it. Using a small, one-man business can also be a good idea. You are likely to get more care and attention because his reputation is on the line. Note: You can say that you put or lay something on the line, if you do something which causes you to risk losing it. Don't put our friendship on the line like this, Martin. Rob Reiner, the director, laid his reputation on the line when he cast her in the film. Compare with put yourself on the line.
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012
on the ˈline
(of a job, your career, reputation, etc.) at risk: If I don’t get enough contracts this month, my job will be on the line. ♢ By making such a controversial movie, he has really put his reputation on the line.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
on the line
1. Ready or available for immediate payment.
2. So as to be risked; in jeopardy: "Careers were on the line once again" (Seymour M. Hersh).
American Heritage® Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright © 2016 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.