borderline outrageous

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "borderline outrageous" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe something that is almost or just on the edge of being considered outrageous or unacceptable. Example: "The proposal for such a drastic change in policy is borderline outrageous and deserves further discussion."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

The other apps here require a monthly fee forever, which is borderline outrageous.

The New York Times - Tech

But then he goes on and on about how a 30percentt price increase is "borderline outrageous," which actually pains my soul.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Westbroek is a woman of abundant beauty, and Graham Vick's borderline-outrageous production (in which she portrayed an oversexed nineteen-sixties housewife) let her show off a sensual side of her artistic personality that was no surprise to those who had seen her at Covent Garden in the title role of Mark-Anthony Turnage's "Anna Nicole".

The New Yorker

It's borderline unconscionable.

Los Angeles Times

CALVIN KLEIN advertising has been called everything from sexy to outrageous to borderline pornographic.

The New York Times

Outraged and Outrageous.

University of California, Berkeley

"To conduct a sweep of American Muslim leaders the weekend before the election is completely outrageous and... borderline unconstitutional," Shibly told the Post.

Vice

Although such claims are an oft-used tactic in civil cases, this one is particularly outrageous, not to mention borderline absurdist, given the facts of this case.

Huffington Post

But the movie that truly ignited the blaxploitation phenomenon was completely independent: Sweet Sweetback's Baadasssss Song (1971) is also perhaps the most outrageous example of the form: wildly experimental, borderline pornographic, and essentially a manifesto for a black American revolution.

Wikipedia

"Borderline cocky.

The New York Times - Sports

Its outrageous.

Harvard University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the audience and context. While "borderline outrageous" can be effective, it might be too strong for formal settings. Adjust your language accordingly.

Common error

Avoid using "borderline outrageous" too frequently. Its impact diminishes if used repeatedly in the same piece of writing. Vary your vocabulary to maintain reader engagement and convey nuanced shades of disapproval.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "borderline outrageous" functions as a compound adjective, modifying a noun to indicate that something is approaching the level of being outrageous. It is used to express a strong degree of disapproval or shock without fully committing to the most extreme negative assessment. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Wiki

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "borderline outrageous" is a grammatically sound and usable adjective phrase indicating that something is nearing the point of being completely unacceptable. While not frequently used, it is effective in conveying strong disapproval. It appears primarily in News & Media and Academic contexts. Ludwig AI affirms its proper usage in written English. Alternative phrases, such as "almost scandalous" or "nearly unacceptable", can provide similar meanings with slightly different nuances. When using the phrase, consider your audience and the overall tone you wish to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

bordering on unacceptable

Uses "unacceptable" instead of "outrageous", focusing more on whether something meets a certain standard.

on the edge of outrageous

Highlights the precarious position of something nearly crossing the line into being outrageous.

tantamount to outrageous

Equates the situation with being outrageous, implying it is just as bad.

verging on unacceptable

Similar to "borderline", but implies the situation is actively moving towards being unacceptable.

approaching scandalous

Emphasizes the gradual progression toward being scandalous.

almost scandalous

Changes the intensity, focusing more on the potential for shock or offense.

nearly unacceptable

Shifts the focus to whether something meets a certain standard of acceptability.

pushing the boundaries of acceptability

Focuses on the act of testing what is deemed acceptable.

just about impermissible

Highlights the lack of permission or allowance for something.

barely tolerable

Indicates a low level of acceptance, suggesting something is difficult to endure.

FAQs

What does "borderline outrageous" mean?

The phrase "borderline outrageous" means something is nearing the point of being completely unacceptable or shocking, but hasn't quite crossed that line.

How can I use "borderline outrageous" in a sentence?

You can use "borderline outrageous" to describe a situation, action, or statement that is almost scandalous or unacceptable. For example, "The proposed budget cuts are "borderline outrageous" and require further review."

What are some alternatives to "borderline outrageous"?

Alternatives to "borderline outrageous" include "almost scandalous", "nearly unacceptable", or "verging on unacceptable". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "borderline outrageous" a formal or informal expression?

"Borderline outrageous" leans towards a slightly informal register, suitable for news articles, opinion pieces, and general conversation. For extremely formal contexts, consider alternatives that are less emotionally charged.