a thin edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a thin edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a narrow margin or a slight difference in a situation, often implying a precarious or delicate balance. Example: "In negotiations, there is often a thin edge between compromise and giving up too much."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

40 human-written examples

A wedge is an object that tapers to a thin edge.

Encyclopedia Britannica

For example, the Puritan minister Thomas Shepard and his peers are described as "walking a thin edge".

The New York Times - Books

28th over: England 118-3 (Pietersen 56 Collingwood 8) Collingwood collects four with a thin edge through third man.

The Guardian - Sport

Just back of a length, it rose sharply outside Maxwell's off stump and took a thin edge through to Ojha.

The Guardian - Sport

The last wicket pair had put on 65 when Brad Haddin appeared to get a thin edge to a ball from Jimmy Anderson.

Independent

Out of town The Dalmatian coastline is spectacular: a thin edge of pine trees is all that lies between the sea and the limestone-bleached mountains.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

20 human-written examples

In 1 case, a new IOL design with a thinner edge may have contributed to the capsule tear.

Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery

He gets a very thin edge through to Akmal who takes a good catch.

The Guardian - Sport

"It is a very thin edge".

The New York Times - Arts

A very thin edge for four by Patel makes it seven off the over, but it really isn't enough.

The Guardian

A chef's knife, also called a French knife -- an elongated, triangular blade heavier at the spine and tapering to a mean, thin edge -- is still favored by professionals.

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a thin edge" to subtly convey a sense of risk or precarity in your writing. It's more evocative than simply stating something is 'risky'.

Common error

Avoid using "a thin edge" when describing significant disparities. It is appropriate only when the differences are subtle and could easily shift.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a thin edge" functions primarily as a noun phrase that modifies another noun, often implying a slight advantage, a precarious position, or a delicate balance. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and correctness in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

12%

Science

8%

Less common in

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

2%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a thin edge" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe a delicate balance, a slight advantage, or a precarious situation. Ludwig AI confirms its validity. It frequently appears in news and media, encyclopedias, and scientific publications, showcasing its versatility. When writing, be mindful of using it to describe subtle differences rather than substantial ones. Alternatives include "a narrow margin" and "a fine line".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a narrow margin

Refers to a small difference or advantage, focusing on the quantitative aspect of the difference.

a fine line

Highlights the delicate and easily crossed boundary between two states or conditions.

a delicate balance

Emphasizes the instability and need for careful management to maintain equilibrium.

a precarious position

Focuses on the risk and uncertainty associated with a particular situation.

a razor's edge

Suggests an extremely narrow and dangerous situation, where the outcome could easily swing either way.

a slim advantage

Highlights a slight lead or benefit, often implying that it could be easily lost.

a marginal difference

Indicates a small and perhaps insignificant variation between two things.

a tenuous grip

Suggests a weak and unstable hold on something, implying that it could be easily lost.

the brink

Implies being close to a significant event or outcome, often negative.

a critical juncture

Focuses on a crucial point in time where important decisions need to be made.

FAQs

How can I use "a thin edge" in a sentence?

You can use "a thin edge" to describe a delicate balance, a slight advantage, or a precarious situation. For example: "The team had "a thin edge" over their rivals going into the final game".

What does "a thin edge" mean?

The phrase "a thin edge" typically signifies a slight advantage, a narrow margin, or a precarious situation where the outcome is uncertain.

What are some alternatives to "a thin edge"?

Some alternatives to "a thin edge" include "a narrow margin", "a fine line", or "a delicate balance", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on a thin edge"?

While less common, "on a thin edge" can be used to describe being in a precarious or unstable position, similar to "walking "a fine line"".