edge of reason

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "edge of reason" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of mental strain or the limits of rational thought, often in contexts discussing sanity or decision-making. Example: "After weeks of stress and uncertainty, I felt like I was teetering on the edge of reason."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

They ride at speeds of up to 200mph on the edge of reason and adhesion.

Independent

(Many remained loyal when the novel The Edge of Reason was universally panned).

The Guardian

Then came Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason three years later.

The Guardian

The even fatter and dafter Bridget Jones: Edge of Reason followed in 2004.

The Guardian - Books

Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason grossed $40m in the US and $222m in foreign.

The Guardian - Film

It's 14 years since the last Bridget Jones novel, Edge of Reason, was published.

The Guardian - Books

Even the second Bridget Jones film, 2004's The Edge of Reason, couldn't manage that.

The Guardian - Opinion

7 8 4 BRIDGET JONES: The Edge of Reason, by Helen Fielding.

The New York Times - Books

Firth reprised the role in Bridget Jones: The Edge of Reason (2004) and Bridget Jones's Baby (2016).

Encyclopedia Britannica

But Ms Fielding, 54, had not published a full-length instalment since The Edge Of Reason appeared in 1999.

Independent

Sequel The Edge of Reason maintained its predecessor's box office clout with $262m in 2004 but was condemned by critics.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "edge of reason", ensure the context clearly indicates a situation where someone is close to losing rational control or making irrational decisions. This phrase adds dramatic weight to descriptions of mental states.

Common error

Avoid using "edge of reason" in everyday situations where simple confusion or disagreement is present. This phrase is most effective when describing extreme mental or emotional states, not minor inconveniences or differences of opinion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "edge of reason" functions primarily as a noun phrase often used adjectivally to describe a state or situation. Ludwig shows its use in describing both literal and figurative proximities to irrationality. This suggests a descriptive function, detailing how close someone or something is to losing rationality.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

73%

Encyclopedias

8%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

3%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "edge of reason" is a versatile noun phrase that describes situations nearing irrationality. Ludwig analysis indicates that the phrase is grammatically sound and frequently used in various contexts, especially within News & Media. While versatile, it's most effective when denoting significant mental or emotional strain, as it should not be employed in overly casual scenarios. Alternatives like "brink of sanity" may suit slightly different nuances, depending on the intent. Therefore, when aiming to express a critical point of potentially lost rationality, "edge of reason" serves as a potent and vivid descriptor.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brink of sanity

Indicates a state very close to losing mental stability, emphasizing the precariousness of one's mental state.

verge of madness

Implies being on the point of becoming mad, highlighting the intensity of emotional or mental distress.

borderline of sanity

Suggests a state of being marginally sane, close to crossing over into insanity.

limit of rationality

Focuses on the boundary where rational thought ceases to be effective or applicable.

point of irrationality

Highlights the specific moment when actions or thoughts become devoid of reason.

in the throes of delusion

Indicates someone is experiencing strong, false beliefs, overriding rational thought.

at wit's end

Suggests being in a state where one's mental resources and patience are exhausted.

beyond the pale

Describes behavior or ideas that are unacceptable or outrageous because they stray far from reason or social norms.

unchartered territory of the mind

Emphasizes exploration of unknown mental states that exceed the traditional boundaries of thinking.

on the fringe of understanding

Conveys the idea of grasping something that is only partially understood, bordering on incomprehensibility.

FAQs

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

You can use "edge of reason" to describe a state where someone is close to losing control of their rational faculties, such as, "After days without sleep, he felt himself teetering on the "edge of reason"".

What phrases are similar to "edge of reason"?

Similar phrases include "brink of sanity", "verge of madness", and "limit of rationality", which all suggest a state of diminished or failing rational thought.

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

Yes, "edge of reason" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when discussing psychology, philosophy, or dramatic narratives where emotional or mental states are intensely explored.

What's the difference between ""edge of reason"" and "height of reason"?

"Edge of reason" implies being close to losing rational thought, while "height of reason" suggests the peak or best application of rational thought. They are nearly opposite in meaning.