are on the margin

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "are on the margin" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is situated at the edge or border of a particular area or situation, often implying a state of being close to a limit or boundary. Example: "The company's profits are on the margin, indicating that they are barely meeting their financial goals this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

MOOCs are on the margin.

The New York Times

But, with a few exceptions, all these parties are on the margin of public knowledge.

The Guardian - Opinion

The differences that exist are on the margin and, while that margin can be consequential, the new strategy should be seen in the context of the country's history.

The Guardian

As Francine Blau and Lawrence Kahn report in a study for the National Bureau of Economic Research, "Fewer and fewer women are on the margin between participating and not participating in the labor force".

The New York Times

They think of companies that are either growing or are on the margin.

Forbes

The fact that they applied for VR services suggests that they are on the margin between staying in the labor force and claiming disability benefits.

IZA Journal of Labor Policy

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

They are on the margins of our society.

The Guardian

At their core, however, mazars appeal to those who are on the margins of society.

The Guardian - Opinion

"A lot of businesses are on the margins in this community," said Rocky Chin, a City Council candidate.

The New York Times

"But when the plane crashes, better seat belts are on the margins".

The New York Times

"As a result," he said, "more and more people are on the margins of society".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "are on the margin", ensure the context clearly defines what boundary or limit is being approached. This will help avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "are on the margin" when describing situations that are clearly central or mainstream. The phrase implies a position outside the core.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "are on the margin" functions as a descriptive phrase, indicating that entities are situated near a boundary, limit, or edge. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "are on the margin" is a grammatically correct and usable expression to describe being close to a limit or boundary. Ludwig AI validates this. While not extremely common, it appears in various contexts, including news, science, and formal writing. Related phrases include ""are on the edge"" and ""are on the periphery"". Ensure the context clearly defines the boundary for clarity and avoid using it when describing central elements.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

are close to the limit

Directly indicates nearness to a specific boundary or restriction.

are at the edge

Emphasizes proximity to a boundary or limit.

are on the periphery

Highlights being on the outer boundary or less important part of a group or area.

are at the fringes

Similar to 'periphery' but suggests being unconventional or outside the norm.

are in a precarious position

Focuses on the instability or risk associated with being near a limit.

are barely making it

Emphasizes the struggle to stay within acceptable limits or conditions.

are on shaky ground

Implies instability and potential for problems.

are near the breaking point

Suggests a situation close to failure or collapse.

are in a vulnerable state

Focuses on susceptibility to negative impacts or changes.

are in an uncertain situation

Highlights the lack of stability and predictability.

FAQs

How can I use "are on the margin" in a sentence?

You can use "are on the margin" to describe something or someone close to a boundary or limit. For example, "These companies "are on the margin" of profitability."

What does "are on the margin" mean?

The phrase "are on the margin" means being close to a limit, boundary, or the edge of a particular state or situation. It suggests a precarious or uncertain position.

What are some alternatives to "are on the margin"?

Some alternatives include "are on the edge", "are on the periphery", or "are at the fringes" depending on the specific context.

Is "are on the margin" formal or informal?

"Are on the margin" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it appears more frequently in news and media or academic writing.