in the line of duty: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘in the line of duty’ mean?
In the line of duty: Refers to the actions someone carries out as part of their job or responsibility, often implying bravery or sacrifice. These actions are done while performing official duties or tasks, especially those involving risk or danger.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "lay on the line" means to take a risk or be open and honest about something, often exposing oneself to potential danger, criticism, or negative consequences.
The idiom "in the dock" means to be on trial or facing judgment in a court of law. It is commonly used to describe someone who is accused of a crime or wrongdoing and has to defend themselves in a legal setting.
The idiom "in the business of" means actively engaged or involved in a particular activity or profession.
The idiom "in the business of" means to be actively engaged or involved in a particular field or occupation. It originated in the 18th century and has since become a common way to express someone's professional involvement or specialization.
The idiom "in the act" means to be caught or seen while doing something, especially something wrong or forbidden. It implies being caught in the midst of performing an action or behavior, often illicit or secretive in nature.
The idiom "in line" means being in a position or sequence, typically waiting for something or following rules or instructions.
The idiom "in business" means actively engaged in commercial or professional activities, usually referring to someone who is running a company or involved in a trade or profession.
The idiom "honor in the breach" means to not fully uphold or follow a code of conduct or principle that is considered important or honorable.
The idiom "hold the line" means to remain in a current position or keep a situation stable, often in the face of difficulty or opposition.
Duty's Guiding Routes
The idiom "in the line of duty" is used to describe actions or circumstances that occur while someone is performing their job or fulfilling their responsibilities. It is often associated with individuals in professions that involve potential danger or risk, such as police officers, firefighters, and members of the military.
The origins of this idiom can be traced back to the use of the word "line" to refer to a specific area or boundary. In the context of duty, the "line" represents the boundaries or expectations of a person's responsibilities within their occupation. The idiom suggests that anything that happens within these boundaries is considered part of their duty or obligation.
While the exact origins of the idiom are unclear, its usage in relation to law enforcement and the military can be seen as far back as the 18th century. The idiom gained widespread recognition in the 19th and 20th centuries, particularly in literature and media depictions of heroic acts performed by individuals in the line of duty.
The idiom "on the line" is closely related to "in the line of duty." It refers to a situation where someone is directly exposed to danger or risk. It implies that someone's safety, reputation, or well-being is at stake. This phrase is often used to describe situations where a person's actions or decisions have significant consequences or where their job puts them in a position of vulnerability.
For example, a firefighter who enters a burning building to save lives is putting themselves on the line. Their actions directly expose them to danger and potential harm. Similarly, a police officer chasing down a dangerous criminal is on the line, as they are risking their safety in the pursuit of justice.
The idiom "duty calls" is another related phrase that emphasizes the sense of responsibility and obligation associated with the concept of "in the line of duty." It is often used to describe situations where someone must put aside personal desires or preferences in order to fulfill their responsibilities.
When duty calls, it means that someone's job or responsibilities require immediate attention or action. They must respond to the situation at hand, regardless of personal feelings or desires. This phrase suggests that duty takes precedence over personal interests and requires a certain level of commitment and dedication.
For example, a doctor who receives an emergency call in the middle of the night must respond to it, even if they would prefer to be asleep. Duty calls in this situation, as the doctor's professional responsibilities require them to provide medical care at any hour.
The idiom "lay on the line" is another phrase that relates to the concept of "in the line of duty." It implies that someone is putting something valuable or important on the line in order to fulfill their responsibilities.
When someone lays it on the line, they are taking a risk or making a sacrifice for a greater cause. They are putting something of value at stake, whether it be their own well-being, reputation, or personal interests.
For example, a soldier who volunteers for a dangerous mission is laying it on the line. They are putting their own safety at risk for the sake of their country and the mission's objectives. In doing so, they are making a sacrifice and displaying a strong sense of duty and commitment.
Overall, the idiom "in the line of duty" encapsulates the concept of performing one's job or fulfilling responsibilities, particularly in situations that involve potential danger or risk. It emphasizes the commitment and sacrifice of individuals in professions where they put themselves on the line for the sake of others.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *in the line of duty* can be used in a sentence:
- He was killed in the line of duty while serving as a police officer.
- The firefighter injured his leg in the line of duty, but still managed to rescue the trapped child.
- Our soldiers risk their lives in the line of duty to protect our country.
More "Work" idioms
