in line
138
3.2
- idiom
- Nevertheless, the studies are in line with past research showing that regular exercise may help protect the brain.
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Watch on YouTubeIf either shared my values, I'd be first in line to vote.
- If either shared my values, I'd be first in line to vote.
- I mean, Charles is next in line to the throne.
- But you would think based on their words that they would be first in line to support the troops.
Examples
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And it seems Nefertari may be next in line.
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My dream will be realized... and guess who will be in line to fill my shoes?
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Is the mission of your institution in line with your values and beliefs?
Academic text (2011) -
You and Fiona are next in line for the throne.
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The military budget proposed for 1992 was $850 million, in line with the spending of previous years.
Academic text (1992) -
He/she will then be able to guide the employees to behave in line with the goals of the organization.
Academic text (2011) -
And our reps, they put in over 60 hours to ensure that we were in line with your husband's insurance agreement.
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Further modules will be added in line with the RCGP framework over the coming months.
Academic text (2015) -
The attitude of the local authorities was strictly in line with that of the city's economic elite.
Academic text (1993) -
As the eldest child, she is next in line for inheriting the family's estate.
How Near
Surface Forms
Morphology
The meaning 'waiting one after another in a queue' is directly and transparently derived from combining 'in' (position within) with 'line' (a queue or straight formation). This simple spatial/compositional pattern is common in English and across languages, so a B1 learner who knows both words can readily infer the MWE's meaning.
Etymology
The adjective in line comes from the image of someone standing in a line of people waiting for a prize or job. If you are in the right place in that line, you are next to get it. So in line means you have a place in the order to receive something.