at the threshold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the threshold" is correct and usable in written English.
It is used to indicate a point of transition from one state to another, such as a point in time, a location, or a state of mind. For example: "He arrived at the threshold of a new era, ready to make a fresh start."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They're always at the threshold".

The New Yorker

At the threshold he read the obituaries.

The New Yorker

At the threshold, she paused uncertainly.

The New Yorker

The absorption depth at the threshold.

Harvard University

The itchy-fingered copy editor hovered at the threshold.

The New Yorker

He stripped at the threshold of his mother's apartment door.

The New York Times - Magazine

We are kept at the threshold, unable to act.

The Guardian - Arts

He began the year at the threshold of immortality and suddenly a mountain appeared.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're standing at the threshold of a moment of change and optimism.

The Guardian

"This is a norm that cannot be accepted internationally at the threshold of the 21st century.

The New York Times

A white-robed man sits at the threshold of the Love-Peace-Happiness Cottage.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the threshold" to create a sense of anticipation or transition in your writing. It can effectively mark the beginning of a new phase, idea, or journey.

Common error

Avoid using "at the threshold" to simply describe a location where something is; instead, use it to imply a point of transition or potential. For example, instead of saying "The cat sat at the threshold of the door", consider "The company stood at the threshold of innovation."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the threshold" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb to indicate a position or state of transition or initiation. It describes where something is in relation to a boundary or beginning. Ludwig AI confirms the validity and widespread use of this phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "at the threshold" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase that signifies a point of transition or a beginning. According to Ludwig AI, its validity is confirmed by numerous examples from diverse sources. The phrase is versatile, fitting into various contexts from news and media to academic and scientific writing. Related phrases include "on the verge of" and "on the cusp of", which capture a similar sense of imminence or potential. While "at the threshold" is generally appropriate for neutral to formal registers, writers should avoid using it merely to indicate a static location, instead focusing on its capacity to convey a sense of anticipation and change.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of

Indicates being very close to experiencing or achieving something, similar to being at the starting point.

on the cusp of

Implies being at a transitional point, much like crossing a threshold into a new phase.

at the beginning of

Refers to the starting point or initial phase, analogous to the entry point.

at the entrance to

Describes the physical or metaphorical point of entry, similar to a doorway.

on the point of

Signifies being about to do something or experience something, like standing at the edge.

at the gateway to

Suggests a passage or entry into a new area or opportunity.

in the initial stage of

Highlights the first part of a process or development.

at the opening of

Emphasizes the commencement or start of something.

at the dawn of

Refers to the beginning of a new era or period, similar to a new day.

at the inception of

Denotes the very start or beginning of something, like the first step across a threshold.

FAQs

How can I use "at the threshold" in a sentence?

Use "at the threshold" to describe a point of transition or beginning, such as "The scientist stood "at the threshold" of a major discovery" or "We are "at the threshold" of a new era".

What are some alternatives to "at the threshold"?

You can use alternatives like "on the verge of", "on the cusp of", or "at the beginning of" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "at the thresholds"?

While "threshold" can be plural, "at the thresholds" is less common. It's more typical to use ""at the threshold"" to represent a general point of transition, unless you are specifically referring to multiple distinct entry points.

What's the difference between "at the threshold" and "on the doorstep"?

"At the threshold" implies a more general point of entry or transition, while "on the doorstep" usually refers to a more literal, physical location right outside a door. You might be ""at the threshold" of success" but "find a package on the doorstep".