out of line 1 adv. phr. Not in a straight line; away from a true line. The two edges were out of line and there was a space between them. The sergeant ordered the soldier who was out of line to get properly lined up.
out of line 2 adj. phr. Not obeying or agreeing with what is right or usual; doing or being what people do not expect or accept; outside ordinary or proper limits; not usual, right, or proper. Little Mary got out of line and was rude to Aunt Elizabeth. The teacher asked Charlie not to tell one of the jokes because it was out of line. Mrs. Green thought the repair man's charge was out of line.
Compare: OUT OF HAND, OUT OF ORDER.
Antonym: IN LINE 2 .