at the outer edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the outer edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a location or position that is on the periphery or boundary of something. Example: "The research facility is located at the outer edge of the city, providing a quiet environment for scientific work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Technical knowledge stops at the outer edge.

The New York Times

The screwdriver was at the outer edge.

The New Yorker

"John Kerry is at the outer edge of people who change their positions.

The New York Times

(Spandrel beams connect the columns at the outer edge of the structural frame).

The New York Times - Arts

At the outer edge, a rack held 49 steel rings and one made of brass.

The New York Times

Kitawa is an island located at the outer edge of the Trobriand Islands.

The New Yorker

Once-pastoral areas at the outer edge of the metropolitan area showed robust growth.

The New York Times

At the outer edge of possibility, terrorist groups could acquire nuclear capability.

The Guardian

Commonplace now, such systems were at the outer edge of information technology at the time.

The New York Times

She then added in a whisper: "Each time, you take the knife and fork that lie at the outer edge".

The Guardian

At the outer edge of this backlash are the ultra-rightists mounting a viral campaign against Munich.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the outer edge" when you want to specifically indicate a location that is on the outermost boundary or limit of something. Be precise about what you're describing the edge of, for example, "at the outer edge of the solar system".

Common error

Avoid using "at the outer edge" when a more precise description of location is possible. Instead of saying something is "at the outer edge", specify the precise region or area if known.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the outer edge" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or noun phrase by specifying its location. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's frequently used to indicate a position on the periphery or boundary of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

Science

32%

News & Media

30%

Encyclopedias

7%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "at the outer edge" is a common prepositional phrase used to describe a location on the periphery or boundary of something. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears frequently in diverse contexts, particularly in scientific and news-related articles, as well as encyclopedic entries. While grammatically straightforward, precise use is crucial: ensure that the boundary it references is clearly defined. Alternatives such as "on the periphery" or "on the outskirts" can be used depending on the desired nuance. Overusing vague spatial references should be avoided, and more specific descriptions should be used whenever possible. In conclusion, understanding the phrase's contextual implications ensures more effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the edge

Shorter and more general, implying proximity to a boundary.

at the periphery

Similar to 'on the periphery' but slightly more formal.

on the periphery

Focuses on the general area around the edge, rather than a specific point.

on the outskirts

Implies a location just beyond the main area or boundary.

at the boundary

Emphasizes the border or limit of something.

on the fringe

Highlights the position as being not fully integrated or included.

at the border

Focuses on the line separating two regions or areas.

on the margin

Suggests a position that is not central or mainstream.

at the extremity

Highlights the position being the furthest point from the center.

at the limit

Suggests a boundary beyond which something cannot extend.

FAQs

How can I use "at the outer edge" in a sentence?

You can use "at the outer edge" to describe the position of something located on the periphery or boundary of a defined area. For example, "The research station is located "at the outer edge" of the forest".

What are some alternatives to "at the outer edge"?

Alternatives include phrases like "on the periphery", "on the outskirts", or "at the boundary", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Which is correct, "at the outer edge" or "on the outer edge"?

Both "at the outer edge" and "on the outer edge" are grammatically acceptable. The choice often depends on the specific context and personal preference, though "at the outer edge" may be slightly more common when referring to a specific point or location.

What does "at the outer edge" imply about the position of something?

Using the phrase "at the outer edge" implies that something is located at the farthest boundary or limit of a defined area or object, suggesting it is not centrally located but rather on the periphery.