nearing the threshold

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "nearing the threshold" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is approaching a limit or boundary, whether literal or metaphorical. Example: "As the deadline approached, the team found themselves nearing the threshold of exhaustion."

✓ Grammatically correct

Science

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

Therefore, the potential of CR for the inhabitants of the study area is within the safe limit, but the cumulative hazard quotients are nearing the threshold.

International Journal of Food Contamination

It is only for objects that are highly accessed and nearing the threshold of DP 300 that the two functions would need to be used in conjunction.

Heritage Science

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

But as the actual jobless rate neared the threshold, officials began to seek a more durable way to telegraph their view on when they will tighten monetary policy.

Huffington Post

AT&T said it sent Ukperaj two text messages in January 2013 as he neared the data threshold, and included the throttling notice in his bill in 2011.

Huffington Post

That dose was near the threshold of radiation exposure that produces clinically measurable symptoms.

The New York Times - Science

"We stand near the threshold of profound economic misery," Mr. Romney told the veterans.

The New York Times

Near the threshold of the front entrance Mr. Riener moves through positions voluptuous and strange.

The New York Times - Arts

"We stand near the threshold of profound economic misery," he said.

The New York Times

This is dangerously near the threshold of 90% identified by the Harvard economist Kenneth Rogoff, together with Carmen and Vincent Reinhart, beyond which economic growth stalls.

The Guardian - Business

So if you're near the threshold, consider buying eyeglasses or getting dental work, and paying for it before the year's up.

The New York Times

He said he had the support of 25 MPs already, admitting he was quite near the threshold he needs to win.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "nearing the threshold", ensure the context clearly defines what the threshold represents. This provides clarity and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "nearing the threshold" when the threshold itself is vague or undefined. Always ensure the reader understands the specific limit or boundary being approached to prevent confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "nearing the threshold" functions as a descriptive term, indicating proximity to a critical point or boundary. As shown in Ludwig, the phrase is used to describe something approaching a limit, whether literal or figurative.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

Science

50%

News & Media

50%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "nearing the threshold" is a grammatically correct and usable expression in English, indicating that something is approaching a limit or boundary. As demonstrated by Ludwig, the phrase is most commonly found in scientific and news contexts. While not exceedingly common, its use is accepted and understood across various domains. To ensure clarity, it's important to define the threshold being approached. Alternative phrases include "approaching the limit" or "close to the boundary". The linguistic analysis shows it functions descriptively and serves to communicate proximity to a significant point.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

approaching the limit

Focuses on the act of approaching a defined limit, similar to nearing a threshold.

close to the boundary

Highlights the proximity to a boundary, whether physical or metaphorical.

on the verge of reaching

Emphasizes the imminence of reaching a specific state or condition.

on the cusp of

Indicates a transitional state, close to a significant change or event.

approaching the critical point

Specifically points to nearing a point of critical importance or change.

about to cross the line

Implies nearing a transgression or unacceptable limit.

on the brink of

Suggests a precarious position just before a significant or drastic event.

within striking distance

Indicates being very close to achieving a goal or reaching a target.

verging on the edge

Highlights the proximity to an extreme state or condition.

within a hair's breadth of

Emphasizes the extremely small distance remaining to reach a limit or event.

FAQs

What does "nearing the threshold" mean?

The phrase "nearing the threshold" means approaching a limit, boundary, or critical point. It suggests that something is close to reaching a significant level or condition.

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

You can use "nearing the threshold" to describe various situations. For example, "The company is "approaching the limit" of its production capacity", or "The patient is "on the verge of reaching" a breakthrough in their recovery".

What are some alternatives to "nearing the threshold"?

Some alternatives to "nearing the threshold" include "approaching the limit", "close to the boundary", or "on the verge of reaching".

Is it more appropriate to say "nearing the threshold" or "reaching the threshold"?

"Nearing the threshold" indicates that the limit hasn't been crossed yet, whereas "reaching the threshold" means the limit has been attained. The choice depends on whether the limit has been reached or is simply being approached.