In (the) line(s) vs. On (the) line(s)

[Haihao]

Hi,

I came across now such a sentence as:

If the number of bankruptcies rises as a result of the bad debt disposal, we'll surely see more people on unemployment lines.

To me, if the underlined part suggests 'a row' or 'rows', then 'in an unemployment line' sounds more natural because 'on' would make me think of another phrase 'put sth. on the line', meaning 'in danger' or something. However, on the other hand, I am sure here 'on an unemployment line' = 'in an unemployment line'. What's my problem and could you help me out with this? Thank you.

haihao

[Alan]

Hi Haihao,

I would suggest the difference between 'in' and 'on' here is a difference between literal and figurative. By that I mean 'in lines' or queues gives the idea of physically or literally standing in the queue as if you are also there and you can see the 'line' of people. 'On lnes' suggests a more abstract picture of imagining a lot of unemployed people. I suppose this could be explained with another pair of phrases -Your name is in a list and your name is on a list. In the first one you can actually see your name. In the second one you are given information that your name is listed somewhere.

Hope this clarifies the difference.

A
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[Haihao]

Hi Alan,

It clarified that very much indeed, sir, and I guess I have got the whole picture now I wanted then. Many many thanks again.

Haihao

[Mejcej]