around the periphery

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "around the periphery" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is located or occurring at the outer edge or boundary of a particular area or subject. Example: "The discussion focused on the main issues, but we also touched on some topics that were around the periphery of the main argument."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Pools of water wrap around the periphery of the space.

The New York Times

There's a meaty, beany quality to its flavor, and sweetness around the periphery of it.

The New York Times - Food

The smaller males hang around the periphery, hoping to get lucky.

The New York Times

So he turned the practice over to his assistants and began to skate around the periphery.

The New York Times - Sports

The pace of depreciation quickened around the periphery of the euro zone.

The Economist

And pain is being felt all around the periphery of the euro area.

The Economist

The unemployment rate remains at 12% and is obviously quite a bit higher around the periphery.

The Economist

No policy has been as important in bringing down government borrowing costs around the periphery.

The Economist

And neither is it clear that much of the gains are occuring around the periphery.

The Economist

The cells are generated by cell division around the periphery of each lobe.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Before this there had been little contribution from the Ivorian as he wandered around the periphery of the contest.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing spatial arrangements, use "around the periphery" to clearly indicate a location at the edge or boundary of a defined area. This phrase is particularly useful in scientific, geographical, and architectural contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "around the periphery" interchangeably with phrases like "in the center" or "throughout the area". "Around the periphery" specifically denotes the outer edges, not the interior or the entirety of a space.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "around the periphery" functions as a prepositional phrase, typically modifying a noun or verb to indicate location or distribution at the outer boundary or edge of something. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

35%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "around the periphery" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that describes something located at or occurring along the outer boundary of an area. Ludwig AI analysis indicates that its usage is considered correct and the phrase appears across diverse sources, including news media, scientific publications, and encyclopedias. While "around the periphery" is generally suitable for formal and technical writing, it's important to avoid confusing it with terms that describe interior locations. For alternatives, consider "at the edge", "on the outskirts", or "near the border" to convey similar meanings.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the edge

Focuses on being located right on the border, simplifying the spatial relationship.

on the outskirts

Suggests a location just outside the main area or center, often implying a less central position.

near the border

Highlights proximity to a boundary line, emphasizing a region close to the edge.

at the boundary

Emphasizes the position directly on the dividing line, stressing the limit or border itself.

along the perimeter

Indicates a position following the entire outer boundary line, often in a continuous manner.

on the fringe

Suggests being on the outer, less important edge, often implying marginalization or being unconventional.

in the margins

Implies a position outside the main focus or activity, often referring to something supplementary or secondary.

at the circumference

Specifically refers to the outer boundary of a circular or rounded area, emphasizing the shape.

along the edge

Highlights continuous placement along the border, stressing the linear aspect of the boundary.

outer limits

Refers to the furthest extent or boundary, stressing the maximum reach or scope.

FAQs

How can I use "around the periphery" in a sentence?

Use "around the periphery" to describe something located or happening at the edge or boundary of an area. For example, "Security cameras were positioned around the periphery of the building."

What are some alternatives to "around the periphery"?

You can use alternatives such as "at the edge", "on the outskirts", or "near the border" depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "on the periphery" instead of "around the periphery"?

While "on the periphery" is also correct, "around the periphery" often implies a more encompassing or circular distribution along the edge, whereas "on the periphery" might suggest a more general location at the edge.

What is the difference between "around the periphery" and "in the center"?

"Around the periphery" refers to the outer boundary or edge of something, while "in the center" indicates the middle or innermost part. They are opposite in meaning and should not be used interchangeably.