Straight and narrow Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Living or behaving in a morally good and honest way, following rules and not getting into trouble.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in the phrase 'stay on the straight and narrow.' It has a slightly old-fashioned or moralistic tone and often relates to avoiding crime or bad behavior. Rarely used literally; refers to behavior, not a physical path.
Example Sentences
It's important to stay on the straight and narrow if you want people to trust you.
basic
He found it hard to keep to the straight and narrow after his friends started making trouble.
basic
Teachers encourage students to stay on the straight and narrow.
basic
After his time in jail, he promised his mother he'd walk the straight and narrow.
natural
It’s not always easy to stay on the straight and narrow when everyone else is bending the rules.
natural
Whenever I feel lost, I remember what my dad said about sticking to the straight and narrow.
natural