On the straight and narrow
Meaning
Living a morally upright and law-abiding life, avoiding temptations and misbehavior.
Origin
The phrase 'on the straight and narrow' draws its profound moral weight directly from biblical scripture, specifically Matthew 7:13-14 in the 17th-century King James Bible. There, the text speaks of a 'strait gate' and a 'narrow way' that leads to life, contrasting it with the 'wide gate' and 'broad way' that leads to destruction. While the original biblical 'strait' referred to something constricted or difficult, the phrase evolved in common usage to incorporate 'straight,' reinforcing the idea of an unswerving, honest, and upright path. This powerful metaphor of a challenging but virtuous journey cemented its place in English, becoming a timeless exhortation to live a life free from vice and temptation.
Examples
- After his release from prison, John promised his family he would stay on the straight and narrow.
- Her parents always encouraged her to stay on the straight and narrow, focusing on her studies and good deeds.