crosses the line
Exceeds acceptable limits
Crosses the line means to go beyond acceptable limits, violating standards of behavior, taste, or propriety.
The metaphor suggests a boundary that shouldn't be passed: His jokes were edgy, but that last one crossed the line.
What constitutes the line varies by context—what crosses it at work might not among friends.
The phrase often marks the moment something becomes offensive, unethical, or intolerable.
- go too farExceed acceptable limits
- trespassUnauthorized entry onto property
- breachBreaking of agreement
- markVisible impression or sign
- overstepExceed proper limits
break the rules · transgress · infringe · boundary · edge · violation · beyond the pale · flag · racing · out of bounds · social norms · faux pas · taboo · misconduct · impropriety · offend · personal space · exceed
crosses the lineholds back
Restrains or delays
pulls back · bites tongue · bites one's tongue · errs on the side of caution · backs off
cross, crosses, crossed, crossing, crossings, crosser, crisscross, line, lines