edge of collapse

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "edge of collapse" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to denote a situation where something, such as an economy, a system of government, or a relationship, is close to being completely ruined or destroyed. For example: The global economy is teetering on the edge of collapse because of the ongoing issues caused by the pandemic.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

Turkey's membership talks are on the edge of collapse.

The Economist

The deal remains on the edge of collapse.

The New York Times

"The regime is on the edge of collapse.

The New York Times

The transitional government has been teetering on the edge of collapse for years.

The New York Times

Now, the financial-familial arrangement is teetering on the edge of collapse.

The New York Times

Pessimists CNN: Snipers, clashes and shelling: Syrian truce on the edge of collapse.

The Guardian

"Now the country is on the edge of collapse," he said.

The New York Times

The world economy was left tilting on the edge of collapse.

The Guardian - Opinion

Senior doctor Roger Kneebone fears that our fractured health service is on the edge of collapse.

The Guardian

Nothing is settled, everything is always teetering on the edge of collapse.

The Guardian - Music

The biggest banks in the country appear to be on the edge of collapse.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "edge of collapse" to describe situations where a system, organization, or entity is imminently facing complete failure. It's suitable for dramatic effect, but ensure the context warrants such a strong term.

Common error

Avoid using "edge of collapse" for minor setbacks or temporary difficulties. Reserve it for scenarios where the risk of complete ruin is genuinely high. Using it too casually dilutes its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "edge of collapse" functions primarily as a noun phrase that often acts as a subject complement or adverbial modifier. It describes a state of being or a condition that is close to complete failure. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Formal & Business

7%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Reference

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "edge of collapse" is a common and grammatically correct expression used to describe situations nearing complete failure. As Ludwig AI confirms, it effectively conveys urgency and the high probability of negative outcomes. While frequently found in news and media, it's essential to use it judiciously, reserving it for scenarios that genuinely warrant such a strong term. Alternatives like "brink of failure" or "verge of disaster" might be more appropriate in less severe contexts. The phrase's frequent appearance in reputable sources, such as The New York Times and The Guardian, underscores its established usage in both formal and neutral registers.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brink of failure

Replaces "collapse" with "failure", focusing on the possibility of not succeeding rather than complete destruction.

facing imminent ruin

Highlights the unavoidable prospect of destruction or decay.

on the precipice

Implies a dangerous position right before a steep decline or fall.

verge of disaster

Emphasizes the potential for a calamitous event, highlighting the negative consequences.

about to crumble

Suggests a gradual deterioration and imminent breakdown.

point of disintegration

Focuses on the breaking apart or crumbling of something, suggesting a loss of cohesion.

at the breaking point

Emphasizes the stress and pressure leading to a potential failure.

on its last legs

An idiomatic expression suggesting something is nearing the end of its functional life or existence.

in terminal decline

Suggests an irreversible and continuous downward trajectory.

near its end

A more general phrase indicating the approaching conclusion of something's existence or functionality.

FAQs

How can I use "edge of collapse" in a sentence?

You can use "edge of collapse" to describe a situation nearing complete failure, like: "The country's economy is on the "edge of collapse" due to the ongoing crisis."

What are some alternatives to "edge of collapse"?

Depending on the context, consider alternatives like "brink of failure", "verge of disaster", or "point of disintegration".

Is it appropriate to use "edge of collapse" in formal writing?

Yes, "edge of collapse" is appropriate for formal writing, especially in news reports or academic analyses, where you need to emphasize the severity of a situation.

What's the difference between "edge of collapse" and "brink of disaster"?

"Edge of collapse" specifically implies a breakdown or failure of a system or structure, while "brink of disaster" suggests impending calamitous events or widespread negative consequences.