"Keeps in line" refers to the act of maintaining control, order, or discipline over someone or something, often to ensure adherence to certain rules, standards, or expectations. It implies maintaining or monitoring the proper behavior, actions, or progress of individuals or elements within a group or system.
When applied to people, "keeps in line" suggests exerting authority or influence to ensure compliance with rules, instructions, or guidelines. This could involve maintaining discipline, setting boundaries, or enforcing consequences for deviations from the established norms. It can be employed by parents, teachers, leaders, or supervisors to maintain order, productivity, or a desired level of performance among those under their guidance or supervision.
When applied to objects or systems, "keeps in line" implies the monitoring, adjusting, or regulating of their functioning to ensure they operate as intended or within specific parameters. This could involve performing regular maintenance, making necessary adjustments, or implementing corrective actions to prevent deviations or failures.
In summary, "keeps in line" is a phrase that denotes the act of exerting control or influence to enforce compliance with rules, standards, or expectations, either over people or other elements of a system. It emphasizes the preservation of order, discipline, or desired functioning within a given context.
