Keep to the straight and narrow Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To behave in a morally correct or honest way, avoiding bad behavior or temptation.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiomatic, somewhat formal or literary expression for being honest and behaving well. Often used with 'stay' or 'remain' instead of 'keep'. Suggests resisting temptation or not breaking rules. Not commonly used in casual speech among young people.
Example Sentences
His parents taught him to keep to the straight and narrow.
basic
If you keep to the straight and narrow, you will avoid trouble.
basic
The teacher encouraged everyone to keep to the straight and narrow at school.
basic
After his trouble with the law, he tried hard to keep to the straight and narrow.
natural
It isn’t always easy to keep to the straight and narrow when your friends make bad choices.
natural
My grandmother often says that life is better if you keep to the straight and narrow.
natural