fine line

American  

[fahyn lahyn] / ˈfaɪn ˈlaɪn /

noun

1. a small, barely perceptible difference.

   There's often a fine line between helping and interfering.

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idioms

1. walk a fine line,

   1. to act carefully in order to avoid the wrong outcome or maintain a delicate balance.

      Moderators walk a fine line between censorship and protecting their site's users.

      I had to walk a fine line between maintaining the peace and doing my job.

   2. to act in a way that risks a disastrous outcome.

      You’re walking a fine line, buddy—if you don’t start watching your mouth, you’ll lose the respect of your kids.

Etymology

Origin of fine line

First recorded in 1845–50

Example Sentences

Carriers are walking a fine line between strong demand and rising costs, and they’re responding the only way they can in the short term: fewer flights.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 21, 2026

Moore has also tried to walk a fine line on the LAFD’s after-action report, which was meant to spell out mistakes and suggest measures to avoid repeating them.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 24, 2026

Tina says there's also a fine line between refreshing and overdoing it as "very aggressive ice exposure can irritate sensitive skin or trigger rosacea, so keep it gentle".

From BBC • Feb. 16, 2026

There’s a fine line between using the internet to distribute your message and inadvertently allowing constant internet feedback to alter your message.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 5, 2026

Daddy follows and I cringe at the fine line of mud on the back of his shoe.

From "The Help" by Kathryn Stockett