approaching the boundary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approaching the boundary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing a situation where something is getting closer to a limit or edge, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "The research team is approaching the boundary of what is currently known in the field of quantum physics."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

These spacecraft, launched in 1977, are currently approaching the boundary of the heliosphere and are expected to yield the first in situ information about the interstellar plasma when they pass the heliopause boundary.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A spokesman for the Israeli Army said soldiers in that area, on the Israeli side of the fence, spotted a group of at least seven Palestinians approaching the boundary with a ladder, within a strip that the army calls off limits to Palestinians.

The New York Times

Considering the potential inside and approaching the boundary, we have.

Boundary Value Problems

Similarly, approaching the boundary from inside we obtain (for ).

Boundary Value Problems

By using Green formula and approaching the boundary from inside we obtain (for ).

Boundary Value Problems

Similarly, considering the potential inside and approaching the boundary, then restricting to the partial boundary : (3.19).

Boundary Value Problems

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

The End of Discovery: Are We Approaching the Boundaries of the Knowable?

The Economist

Stannard, a high-energy nuclear physicist, as well as a regular contributor to Thought for the Day on Radio 4's Today programme, believes we may be approaching the boundaries of the knowable; such is the message of his new book, The End of Discovery (OUP).

The Guardian - Tech

Others approach the boundary of good taste.

The New York Times

As the surface is approached, the boundary spacing decreases to ∼50 nm at the surface.

Acta Materialia

Such systems require more and more power, such that this paradigm rapidly approaches the boundary of its scalability.

Mechatronics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "approaching the boundary" to describe the state of something getting closer to a limit or defined line, whether physical or abstract. This phrase works well in both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "approaching the boundary" too frequently in abstract discussions where simpler alternatives like "nearing the limit" or "getting close" would be more effective and clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approaching the boundary" functions as a prepositional phrase indicating the act of moving closer to a defined limit or edge. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically sound. Examples show its use in describing physical boundaries (like the heliosphere) and abstract limits.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

41%

News & Media

27%

Academia

14%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Encyclopedias

4%

Formal & Business

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "approaching the boundary" is a grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to describe the act of nearing a limit, edge, or defined space. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English. It appears most frequently in scientific and news contexts, with a neutral register making it suitable for various audiences. While not exceedingly common, its usage is well-established. Consider alternatives like "nearing the limit" or "getting close to the edge" for stylistic variation. Remember to use the phrase accurately, describing something in the process of nearing, not having already reached, the defined limit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

drawing near the border

Focuses on the act of becoming closer to a specified border or limit, emphasizing the diminishing distance.

closing in on the edge

Conveys a sense of actively reducing the space between the subject and the edge, often implying intention or progress.

nearing the demarcation line

Emphasizes proximity to a defined boundary, often one that is officially recognized or legally established.

advancing towards the frontier

Implies forward movement toward a new or unexplored boundary, suggesting exploration or progress.

getting closer to the limit

Highlights the act of reducing the distance to a maximum allowable value or quantity, applicable in both physical and abstract scenarios.

converging on the perimeter

Implies movement from multiple directions towards the outer boundary of an area or space.

inching towards the verge

Suggests slow, gradual movement towards a boundary, often indicating caution or hesitation.

verging on the threshold

Emphasizes being on the brink of crossing a boundary, implying an imminent transition or change.

approaching the confines

Highlights the act of nearing the limits or boundaries of something, often referring to restrictions or constraints.

moving closer to the margin

Implies a gradual reduction in the distance to a boundary, often in a figurative or abstract sense.

FAQs

How can I use "approaching the boundary" in a sentence?

You can use "approaching the boundary" to describe something nearing a limit or edge. For example, "Voyager probes are "approaching the boundary" of the heliosphere."

What are some alternatives to "approaching the boundary"?

Alternatives include "nearing the limit", "getting close to the edge", or "drawing near the border", depending on the context.

Is "approaching the boundary" formal or informal?

"Approaching the boundary" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its appropriateness depends more on the surrounding vocabulary and the overall tone of the writing.

What's the difference between "approaching the boundary" and "reaching the boundary"?

"Approaching the boundary" describes the act of getting closer, while "reaching the boundary" indicates that the limit or edge has already been attained.