crosses the boundary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "crosses the boundary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where something goes beyond a limit or threshold, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "The new policy crosses the boundary of acceptable behavior in the workplace."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

If he crosses the boundary, he may be sent to jail.

The Guardian

"If one of us occasionally crosses the boundary between analysis and advocacy, so be it," he said.

The New York Times - Health

When a ray of light crosses the boundary between two materials, such as air and glass, its path is deflected.

The Economist

"Dress codes have definitely relaxed and we value comfort more than ever before, but going out in the clothes you have slept in crosses the boundary of acceptability".

The Guardian - Lifestyle

"Vulgar and offensive language can cause real harm, crosses the boundary of appropriate conduct and even disrupts the entire work force," the policy states.

The New York Times

Users may also see incorrect values for these errors for RA values very near 0|360 such that the error bar crosses the boundary and wraps around.

Harvard University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

"MCM crosses the boundaries of streetwear and high-end fashion," she says.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

These are both very working-class women – but negligence crosses the boundaries.

The Guardian - Books

Another major producing player is Soho theatre, which crosses the boundaries between theatre, comedy and cabaret.

The Guardian

Lolita by Vladimir Nabokov (1955) Nabokov's tragicomic tour de force crosses the boundaries of good taste with glee.

The Guardian - Books

His work crosses the boundaries of philosophy, theology, psychology, literary criticism, devotional literature and fiction.

SEP

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the connotations of "crosses the boundary"; it can imply either a positive act of innovation or a negative act of transgression, depending on the situation. Choose your words carefully to align with your intended meaning.

Common error

A common error is to assume that "crosses the boundary" always implies a negative action. Remember that in many contexts, such as science or art, crossing boundaries can be a sign of progress or creativity. Be mindful of the reader's interpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "crosses the boundary" functions primarily as a verb phrase indicating the action of exceeding or moving beyond a defined limit, either physical or abstract. It is commonly used to describe scenarios where a limit or demarcation is being surpassed. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

32%

Academia

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

4%

Wiki

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "crosses the boundary" is a versatile verb phrase used to describe exceeding a defined limit, whether physical or abstract. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and common usage in written English. It appears frequently in news, science, and academic contexts, suggesting its broad applicability. While generally neutral in tone, it's important to consider the implied valuation, as crossing a boundary can be either positive or negative depending on the context. Related phrases include "exceeds the limit" and "oversteps the mark", offering subtle variations in meaning. Remember to clearly define the boundary being crossed to avoid ambiguity in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

exceeds the limit

Directly indicates going beyond a specified restriction or maximum.

transgresses the limit

A more formal way of saying 'exceeds the limit', often used in moral or legal contexts.

oversteps the mark

Implies exceeding acceptable limits of behavior or action; focuses on appropriateness.

trespasses the bounds

Suggests an unlawful or immoral encroachment; more formal and legalistic.

violates the barrier

Highlights a forceful breach of a protective or restrictive element.

infringes upon the border

Emphasizes the act of violating a defined line or territory.

encroaches on the frontier

Suggests a gradual or subtle invasion of a territory or area.

breaks the confines

Implies escaping or exceeding imposed restrictions or limitations.

overrides the restriction

Focuses on nullifying or disregarding a rule or limitation.

pushes the envelope

Indicates testing the limits of what is possible or acceptable; more informal.

FAQs

How can I use "crosses the boundary" in a sentence?

You can use "crosses the boundary" to describe situations where something exceeds a limit or threshold. For example, "The artist's work "crosses the boundary" between painting and sculpture."

What are some alternatives to "crosses the boundary"?

Alternatives include "exceeds the limit", "oversteps the mark", or "transgresses the limit", depending on the nuance you wish to convey.

Is "crosses the boundary" formal or informal?

"Crosses the boundary" is generally considered neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. The level of formality depends more on the surrounding language and the specific context.

What does it mean when something "crosses the boundary"?

When something ""crosses the boundary"", it means it goes beyond a defined limit or threshold. This could be a physical boundary, like a border, or a metaphorical boundary, like a limit of acceptable behavior.