line of battle

• Terme militaire désignant le dispositif de troupes formé pour le combat, généralement en ligne droite face à l'ennemi. Peut aussi s'employer métaphoriquement pour une situation où des camps opposés sont prêts à s'affronter.

A military term referring to the formation in which troops are arranged for combat, typically in a straight line facing the enemy. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where opposing sides are prepared for confrontation.

1. Formation in sportsB2formalamerican

   A specific arrangement of players on a team, especially in American football or rugby, used for a particular play or strategy.

   ligne de formation

   • The coach called for a new line of battle for the final play.
   • The team's line of battle shifted to the left to confuse the defense.
   • He studied the opponent's line of battle to anticipate their moves.

2. Military formationC1formal

   An arrangement of troops or ships ready for combat, typically in a line.

   ligne de bataille

   • The general ordered the soldiers to form a line of battle.
   • The fleet sailed in a line of battle to maximize firepower.
   • The line of battle stretched across the entire field.