What is the origin of the idiom toe the line?

Answer 1

The idiom "toe the line" originates from the practice in sports, particularly in running and boxing, where competitors must position their toes along a starting line before a race or match begins. It conveys the idea of adhering to rules or conforming to expectations. The phrase has also been linked to military discipline, where soldiers are required to align their toes with a designated line during inspections. Over time, it has evolved to mean complying with standards or authority in various contexts.