[Idiom] OUT OF LINE. - Discussing Proper Behavior with Useful English Idioms

Inappropriate or improper behavior.

To be "out of line" is to behave inappropriately or disrespectfully. This idiom draws on the literal image of someone stepping out of an orderly line or row, thus breaking from agreed social norms or behaviors which are expected in a civilized society.

Example Sentences

1. His comments were totally out of line at the meeting.

   His comments were completely inappropriate at the meeting.

2. You were out of line to criticize her in front of everyone.

   You were inappropriate to criticize her in front of everyone.

3. He apologized after realizing that his joke was way out of line during the dinner conversation.

   He apologized after realizing that his joke was completely inappropriate during the dinner conversation.