by the edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "by the edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a location or position that is near the boundary or limit of something, such as a physical object or area. Example: "The cat sat quietly by the edge of the cliff, watching the sunset."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

She stays by the edge.

The New Yorker

Prisoners are released by the edge of the sword.

The Guardian

Copper sorption by the edge surfaces of synthetic birnessite nanoparticles.

University of California, Berkeley

— from some bush by the edge of the woods.

The New York Times

His fifth ball slides by the edge of the bat.

The Guardian - Sport

15 The streams provided by the edge servers can be in a variety of different formats.

Harvard University

A yellow school bus with no wheels was marooned by the edge of the highway.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

It's replaced by the edge-to-edge glass finish found on the MacBook Pro.

Independent

MR, marking rate: the ratio of the marked packets by the edge router to all packets.

EURASIP Journal on Information Security

Both papers are owned by the Edge Media Group, which also owns the Malaysian Insider.

The Guardian

This week a group of moral naturalists gathered in Connecticut at a conference organized by the Edge Foundation.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing physical locations, use "by the edge" to create a vivid image of nearness and potential transition. For instance, "the village sat by the edge of the forest" paints a more picturesque scene than simply "near the forest."

Common error

Avoid using "by the edge" in purely abstract scenarios where physical proximity doesn't apply. For example, instead of saying "the company was by the edge of bankruptcy", consider using "on the verge of bankruptcy" or "close to bankruptcy" as more fitting alternatives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "by the edge" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying nouns or verbs to indicate a location or position near a boundary or border. It provides spatial context, as seen in Ludwig's examples such as "by the edge of the woods" or "by the edge of the pool."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

1%

Academia

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the prepositional phrase "by the edge" is grammatically sound and very common across various contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and provides numerous examples showcasing its use in describing proximity to a boundary. While predominantly found in News & Media, Science, and Wiki sources, it maintains a neutral register suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using this phrase, ensure it aligns with physical or metaphorical scenarios involving proximity and avoid overly abstract applications. Consider alternatives like "at the brink" or "near the border" for nuanced expressions.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the brink

Indicates being very close to the edge or verge of something, often implying a precarious or critical situation.

near the border

Focuses on spatial proximity to a boundary line, without necessarily implying danger or instability.

along the perimeter

Suggests a position that traces the outer boundary of an area or object.

close to the margin

Implies a position near the limit or boundary, often in a figurative sense relating to tolerance or acceptability.

adjacent to the rim

Specifically denotes being next to the outer edge of a circular or curved object.

on the verge of

Emphasizes being at the point of transition or the brink of an action or event.

bordering on

Indicates close proximity to a boundary and can imply similarity or resemblance, especially in abstract contexts.

in close proximity to the limit

Highlights the nearness to a defined boundary or restriction.

alongside the fringe

Describes a position along the decorative border or outer part of something.

at the periphery

Indicates a location at the outer limits or boundary of an area, often implying a less central or important position.

FAQs

How can I use "by the edge" in a sentence?

The phrase "by the edge" is used to indicate a position near the boundary or limit of something. For example, "She sat "by the edge" of the pool, dangling her feet in the water."

What are some alternatives to "by the edge"?

Alternatives include phrases like "at the brink", "near the border", or "along the perimeter", depending on the specific context and nuance you wish to convey.

Is "by the edge" formal or informal?

The phrase "by the edge" is considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. Its suitability depends more on the surrounding language and the overall tone of your writing.

Can "by the edge" be used metaphorically?

While primarily used to describe physical locations, "by the edge" can also be used metaphorically to suggest being close to a significant change or event. For instance, "The project was "by the edge" of completion" implies it was nearly finished.