"tow the line" . What is the meaning?

Answer 1

To "toe the line" means to behave and follow the rules

Answer 2

To borrow another cliche, one is "towing the line" when they're "on thin ice." In other words,they are in danger of crossing a pre-established line or boundary that has been set.

Example: The teacher said, "If Robert doesn't turn in the homework assignment for English by tomorrow, he is towing the line in so far as being eligible for playing in Friday's varsity football game."

Answer 3

"Toe the line" is an idiomatic expression with disputed origins. It is often equated to "toe the mark," which has the same meaning: to conform to a rule or a standard. One documented origin of the phrase is as an athletics analogy originated in the early 19th century. Other suggested origins are the center line in boxing which boxers were instructed to toe at the start of each round, or the lines created by deck planks on ships which naval crews used to “fall in line”. The longest running use of the phrase, often mentioned by tourist guides, is from the British House of Commons where sword strapped members were instructed to stand behind lines that were better than a sword’s length from their political rivals. Thus the cry to “toe the line!” was echoed to return order to the House and to quell a potential mortal conflict. See also

In modern usage, it appears often in the context of partisan or factional politics, as in, "He's toeing the party line." This also justifies the case for its origination from a political body, namely the British House of Commons.

In other words to stay on the edge, but not going over it.

Answer 4

In the phrase to "toe the line" (not "tow the line"), the line represents a rule or set of rules. To "toe" it is to ensure that you keep on the law-abiding side of it (think: you're making sure that not even your toes cross it).

Answer 5

follow the rules

Answer 6

do what is expected of you