on the right lines

on the right lines

Acting, developing, or progressing in a way that is likely to succeed. After all of those failed experiments, our team is finally on the right lines now.

See also: line, on, right

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

on the right lines

or

along the right lines

BRITISH

1. If someone or something is on the right lines or along the right lines, they are acting or developing in a way that is likely to be successful. Sometimes all you really require is a friendly voice to tell you that you are on the right lines. The team is developing along the right lines and they could surprise a few people in the World Cup next month.

2. If someone or something is on the right lines or along the right lines, they are almost, but not completely, managing to achieve the required result. The treatment offered so far has been along the right lines, but not successful in curing the condition completely. Compare with on the right track.

See also: line, on, right

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012