be in (one's) line

To be an area of skill or interest for one. My mom studied art in college, so it's not surprising that photography is in her line. Editing is in your line, right? Can you please take a look at my paper before I hand it in? He's a bit of an odd fellow. Snowshoeing is in his line, and so is juggling.

be in line

1. Literally, to wait in a line of people. This shouldn't take much longer—Mom's in line to pay right now. People who wanted to get one of the early smartphones would be in line for hours, if not days! I was in line for security for so long that I almost missed my flight!

2. To be a likely recipient of something, such as a job or an award. I'm pretty sure I'm in line for Connie's position once she retires. My daughter is a great student, so she's in line for many academic awards at graduation. You talk to management—who do you think is in line for the promotion?

3. To conform, adhere to, or agree with that which is established or generally accepted, such as rules, beliefs, modes of behavior, etc. You might have some wild ideas for the future, but you'll never get anywhere in this business if your actions aren't in line with your boss's expectations. A four-game suspension is in line with our normal policies. His votes are in line with the president nearly 100 percent of the time.