Out of line
/aʊt əv ˈlaɪn/informalUK · US
What does “Out of line” mean?
Out of line means rude, unfair or beyond what is acceptable
A joke about a friend’s private problem may be out of line, even if everyone laughs. The phrase judges the behaviour, not whether it was successful.
It can also refer literally to things that are not lined up. In a disagreement, the speaker normally means someone has gone too far.
When do people say it?
Usually a criticism of something someone said or did. “You were out of line” is direct and can start an argument.
“Your joke about her divorce was out of line.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The line represents a limit on acceptable behaviour. Being outside it means going beyond that limit.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Out of line” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-11-04