brink of dislocation

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "brink of dislocation" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation that is on the verge of disruption or chaos, often in a social, economic, or physical context. Example: "The community was on the brink of dislocation due to the sudden influx of refugees."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

There is also a game of chicken between the E.C.B. and bond market investors, which have driven the 17-nation currency area to the brink of dislocation because of a lack of confidence in its policy makers' ability to overcome the crisis.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Increasingly we get a sense of dislocation.

The Guardian

A subluxation is a form of dislocation.

The New York Times - Sports

Ms. Cremins and Ms. Castro choreographically explore states of dislocation.

The New York Times

The sense of dislocation at such moments is pretty strong.

The New York Times

It doesn't approach that kind of dislocation".

The New York Times

There is now a comparable sense of dislocation.

The Guardian - Books

I related to the character's sense of dislocation.

The New York Times

Can you connect with that sense of dislocation?

The Guardian - Books

And any feeling of dislocation is purely generational.

The New York Times

Today, he recognizes the same kind of dislocation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "brink of dislocation" to describe situations where systems, communities, or relationships are close to experiencing significant disruption or breakdown. Consider the context carefully to ensure it accurately conveys the intended sense of impending chaos or fragmentation.

Common error

Avoid using "brink of dislocation" in contexts where the situation is merely challenging but not genuinely on the verge of collapse. Overusing the phrase can diminish its impact and credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "brink of dislocation" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a complement to a verb or preposition. It describes the state of being close to a point of disruption or fragmentation. Ludwig confirms that this is an acceptable phrase.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "brink of dislocation" is a phrase used to describe a situation nearing a state of significant disruption or fragmentation. Ludwig confirms its correctness and usability in English. While it appears relatively infrequently, mainly within news and media contexts, its meaning is clear and its application, when appropriate, can effectively convey a sense of impending instability. Related phrases like "verge of collapse" or "edge of chaos" offer alternative ways to express similar ideas, but focus more on total destruction rather than instability.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

verge of collapse

Emphasizes imminent failure or breakdown, similar to dislocation but with a stronger connotation of destruction.

edge of chaos

Highlights the precariousness and unpredictability of a situation, implying a transition to disorder.

precipice of disruption

Focuses on the disruptive nature of the impending event, suggesting a disturbance to the existing order.

point of instability

Underscores the lack of equilibrium and the likelihood of change, highlighting the fragile state.

cusp of upheaval

Implies a sudden and significant change, often with social or political implications.

threshold of fragmentation

Suggests a breakdown into smaller, disconnected parts, emphasizing disunity.

brink of disintegration

Implies a complete breakdown of a system or structure, emphasizing a loss of cohesion.

verge of transformation

Focuses on the potential for significant change, without necessarily implying negative consequences.

edge of dissolution

Suggests a fading away or termination of something, implying a gradual decline.

point of fracturing

Highlights a split or division, suggesting a break in unity or cohesion.

FAQs

How can I use "brink of dislocation" in a sentence?

You can use "brink of dislocation" to describe a situation that is close to experiencing a major disruption or breakdown, for example: "The community was on the "brink of dislocation" due to the sudden economic downturn."

What phrases are similar to "brink of dislocation"?

Alternatives include "verge of collapse", "edge of chaos", or "cusp of upheaval", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "brink of dislocation" in formal writing?

Yes, "brink of dislocation" can be used in formal writing, especially when discussing serious situations involving potential societal or systemic disruption. Consider the register of your writing when using related terms and phrases.

What is the difference between "brink of dislocation" and "brink of disaster"?

"Brink of dislocation" focuses on disruption and fragmentation, while "brink of disaster" implies impending catastrophe or ruin. The choice depends on whether the emphasis is on systemic breakdown or overall calamity.