IdiomBody & Senses
English
Englishtoe the line
Meaning: To follow the rules; to do what is expected of one.
Example: “New employees are expected to toe the line during their probation.”
Equivalents in other languages
French: Le petit doigt sur la couture du pantalon Literally: Little finger on the trouser seam
Origin: Probably from races and early boxing, where competitors had to stand with their toes at a line marked on the ground before starting. Naval crews were also lined up with their toes on a deck seam for inspection. It has meant conforming to the rules since the early 19th century.
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