cusp of suicide

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cusp of suicide" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a critical point or moment just before a decision or action related to suicide is made. Example: "He felt he was on the cusp of suicide, overwhelmed by despair and hopelessness."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Some of the most beautiful passages deal with the minister's wife, a distraught woman who wanders through the narrative on the cusp of suicide, a bottle of pills in her pocket.

The New York Times - Books

I have also been right on the cusp of suicide.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

55 human-written examples

Suicide 0-4 -Thoughtss of suicide along with severity of attempts.

EURASIP Journal on Advances in Signal Processing

Number of suicide inclination, suicide attempts, or suicides.

Plosone

Thoughts of suicide.

WikiHow

Have thoughts of suicide.

WikiHow

Family history of suicide.

WikiHow

Mangled exoticisms hurtle into the elevated, slightly queer trance of "Come Down To Us", making it less summer party anthem and more alien suicide cult at the frenzied cusp of the great disappointment.

Vice

He was on the cusp of 18.

The New York Times - Sports

In "The Virgin Suicides," based on Jeffrey Eugenides's novel, the five beautiful sisters who mysteriously kill themselves remain forever frozen on the cusp of adulthood.

The New York Times

"We're on the cusp of something".

The New York Times - Magazine

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing mental health, using the phrase "cusp of suicide" can accurately convey the critical and immediate nature of the situation. Ensure sensitivity and provide resources for help when using this phrase.

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "cusp of suicide" casually or without acknowledging the profound emotional and psychological distress it represents. Do not use it to exaggerate situations that do not involve genuine suicidal ideation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "cusp of suicide" functions as a descriptor of a critical state, indicating that an individual is at a very high risk of attempting suicide. It is often used in narratives or discussions about mental health, signaling an urgent and precarious situation. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in such contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

25%

Wiki

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "cusp of suicide" describes a critical and urgent state where an individual is at immediate risk of attempting suicide. Ludwig AI validates its correctness and appropriateness in contexts related to mental health discussions. Usage is relatively rare but consistently conveys the severity of the situation, primarily in news and media sources, with scientific and general contexts also present. Related phrases emphasize imminence, emotional distress, and the necessity for intervention. When using this phrase, sensitivity and the provision of support resources are essential to avoid misrepresentation or trivialization of the profound issues involved.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the brink of suicide

Emphasizes the imminence and precariousness of the situation; the person is very close to attempting suicide.

on the edge of suicide

Similar to 'brink', it highlights the precariousness and potential fall into suicide.

feeling suicidal

Focuses on the emotional state and feelings associated with considering suicide.

contemplating suicide

Focuses on the thought process and planning stages before a potential attempt.

struggling with suicidal thoughts

Highlights the internal battle and emotional distress associated with considering suicide.

experiencing suicidal ideation

A more clinical and formal way to describe having thoughts about suicide.

in a suicidal crisis

Emphasizes the acute and urgent nature of the situation, requiring immediate intervention.

at risk of suicide

Focuses on the vulnerability and potential for suicide, often used in a preventative context.

considering self-harm

A broader term that includes thoughts of suicide but also other forms of self-inflicted harm.

on the verge of self-destruction

Describes a broader pattern of behavior that leads to self-harm, including suicide.

FAQs

What does it mean to be on the "cusp of suicide"?

Being on the "cusp of suicide" means that someone is at a critical point where they are very close to attempting suicide. It implies a heightened risk and the need for immediate intervention and support.

What are some alternative ways to say someone is near suicide?

You can use alternatives like "on the brink of suicide", "on the edge of suicide", or "contemplating suicide" to convey a similar meaning.

How should I respond if someone tells me they are on the "cusp of suicide"?

If someone tells you they are on the "cusp of suicide", it is crucial to take them seriously. Encourage them to seek professional help immediately, and provide them with resources such as suicide prevention hotlines or mental health services. Do not leave them alone.

Is "cusp of suicide" the same as "suicidal ideation"?

"Cusp of suicide" implies a more immediate risk of attempting suicide, while "suicidal ideation" refers to having thoughts about suicide. While related, the former suggests a higher level of crisis and urgency.