Why pirates avoided ships of the line

Were ships of the line ever used as pirate ships during the age of sail?

No practical example is offered; they were too expensive to operate and would draw overwhelming attention from national navies.

A ship of the line was far too expensive for ordinary pirate operations. Possessing one would also attract attention by turning the pirates into a conspicuous challenge to national navies. Smaller vessels avoided much of that expense and exposure. The discussion adds an etymological aside linking the word buccaneer with the same root as barbecue.