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Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

Complete the sentence below by supplying the appropriate idiomatic expression that correctly fits the context.

Answer:After weeks of openly defying the cabinet's official policy on trade tariffs, the dissenting minister was finally compelled to 【toe the line】 during the parliamentary vote.

Answer

The correct idiomatic expression to complete the sentence is 'toe the line' (or 'toe the party line').
The idiomatic expression 'toe the line' (or 'toe the party line') accurately completes the sentence because it means to conform strictly to rules, authority, or standard policy—especially after a period of disagreement or opposition.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the sentence context to determine the expected political behavior of the minister.
The minister previously defied official policy but was finally forced to submit to authority and conform during the parliamentary vote.
Clues such as 'defying', 'dissenting minister', and 'compelled' indicate a transition from rebellion to forced compliance with official rules.
2
Identify the standard English idiom that means to conform strictly to rules, authority, or organizational policy.
The phrase 'toe the line' means to follow regulations or adhere strictly to political discipline.
Originating from standing with toes aligned on a mark in military formation, its figurative meaning in modern English is conforming to established authority.

Key Concept

Idiom interpretation and completion in context: 'toe the line' means to conform strictly to rules, authority, or party policy under demand.
Estimated Time:1m 0s
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Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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