cross the threshold

USAGE SUMMARY

"cross the threshold" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It usually means to pass from one stage or level to another and can be used to describe a literal or figurative action. For example: "The students crossed the threshold of high school and began their journey as young adults."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

But, deterred by Maggie's presence, it wouldn't cross the threshold.

The New Yorker

Our Cuban guides were not allowed to cross the threshold.

The New York Times - Travel

"The problem is when they cross the threshold of authenticity".

The New York Times

You're just waiting for the moment to cross the threshold".

The New York Times - Magazine

The tax that year applies only to teams that cross the threshold in 2005.

The New York Times - Sports

Rupert Goold on Richard II It hits me the moment I cross the threshold.

The Guardian

It's not surprising that fewer girls decide to cross the threshold.

The New York Times

But how do you convince potential new customers to cross the threshold?

The Guardian - Books

I wanted to cross the threshold and be initiated into real life.

The New Yorker

How long now until we cross the threshold and create a robot that thinks?

MIT Technology Review

"It is when you cross the threshold of that door that you grasp the reason for visiting Dachau.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "cross the threshold" when you want to describe the act of entering a new phase, both literally (entering a building) or figuratively (starting a new stage in life or business).

Common error

Avoid using "cross the threshold" in contexts where the transition isn't significant or doesn't represent a clear boundary being overcome. Ensure the context warrants the sense of entering something new or important.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cross the threshold" primarily functions as a verb phrase. It signifies the action of passing a boundary, either literally, like entering a building, or figuratively, indicating a transition to a new phase or state. As Ludwig AI states, it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cross the threshold" is a frequently used verb phrase that describes the act of passing a boundary, whether physical or metaphorical. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and readily usable in written English. Its presence across various contexts, from news articles to scientific papers, illustrates its versatility. While it appears most frequently in news and media, its appearance in business and science further supports its widespread acceptance. Remember to employ "cross the threshold" when emphasizing a transition or the start of something new.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

enter a new phase

This alternative focuses on beginning a new stage, emphasizing progression.

reach a turning point

This alternative highlights a moment of significant change or decision.

pass a milestone

This suggests achieving a significant point in a process or journey.

transcend a barrier

This emphasizes overcoming an obstacle or limitation.

surpass a limit

This suggests exceeding a boundary or restriction.

embark on a new journey

This alternative focuses on starting a new experience or endeavor.

attain a new level

This signifies reaching a higher stage of achievement or understanding.

break new ground

This refers to innovating or achieving something unprecedented.

move beyond a boundary

This highlights the act of going past a defined limit.

step into a new realm

This alternative evokes a sense of entering a different world or dimension.

FAQs

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

You can use "cross the threshold" to describe entering a building (When you cross the threshold of their home, you're an honored guest) or starting a new phase in life (The first movie was about trying to cross the threshold into adulthood, how weirdly tragic that is).

What are some alternatives to "cross the threshold"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "enter a new phase", "reach a turning point", or "pass a milestone".

Is it correct to say "crossed the threshold" instead of "cross the threshold"?

Yes, "crossed the threshold" is the past tense form of the phrase and is perfectly acceptable when referring to an action that has already occurred. For example, "She crossed the threshold and entered the room."

What's the difference between "pass the threshold" and "cross the threshold"?

"Pass the threshold" typically refers to exceeding a specific limit or requirement, while "cross the threshold" usually describes entering a physical space or transitioning into a new state or phase. For example, you might "pass the test", but you "cross the border".