1.
to draw a clear line between; to distinguish oneself from; to set oneself apart
An idiomatic expression meaning to establish a clear distinction or boundary between two things, or to stand clearly apart from others. Often used to describe how something or someone is distinctly different from comparable things.
この作品は他とは一線を画している。
This work stands apart from the rest.
仕事と私生活の間に一線を画すべきだ。
You should draw a clear line between work and private life.
その会社は品質において競合他社と一線を画している。
That company clearly distinguishes itself from its competitors in quality.
USAGE:
A formal expression commonly used in written language and news commentary. The pattern is AとBの間に一線を画す (to draw a line between A and B) or Aと一線を画す (to distinguish from A). The verb 画す is a literary form of 画く meaning to draw or demarcate.
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 他と一線を画す (to stand apart from others)
- 明確に一線を画す (to draw a clear line)
- 一線を画した存在 (a distinct presence)
SIMILAR WORDS:
- 区別する: to distinguish, to differentiate — more everyday and neutral
- 際立つ: to stand out, to be conspicuous — focuses on being noticeable