on the boundary

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the boundary" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to something that is at the edge or limit of something else. For example: We camped on the boundary of the National Park, enjoying the beautiful views from the edge.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Only one man out on the boundary and he finds him.

BBC

if   is on the boundary of exactly one -cell   and.

Boundary Value Problems

Pattinson wasn't right on the boundary to start with but should have swallowed that one.

The Guardian - Sport

Well fielded on the boundary.

The Guardian - Sport

Rampaul finds Lumb waiting on the boundary.

The Guardian - Sport

Kircher also played on the boundary of decency.

The New York Times - Arts

And if you're fielding out on the boundary you'll do a fair bit of running.

The Guardian - Money

Against Australia a top-edged hook against a Shane Watson bouncer was caught on the boundary.

The Guardian - Sport

Hussey was gracious enough to get out, caught on the boundary, two balls later.

The Guardian - Sport

"This only matters on the boundary condition, when there's a coulda, woulda, shoulda.

The New Yorker

Root was caught on the boundary with 11 runs needed from 10 balls.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the boundary" when you want to emphasize a position at the edge of a defined area, either literally or figuratively. For example, "The research lies on the boundary between physics and chemistry."

Common error

Avoid using "on the boundary" when you actually mean "related to" or "connected with". "On the boundary" specifies location or interface, not general association. Using the phrase in the wrong context can make your writing sound awkward.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the boundary" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or noun to specify a location or condition at the edge or limit of something. Ludwig confirms its grammatical correctness and varied usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

35%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

3%

Social Media

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the boundary" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase, widely used to denote a position at the edge, limit, or interface of something. Ludwig AI confirms that it is suitable for various contexts and sources. While predominantly found in “News & Media” and “Science”, its application extends across different fields. When using "on the boundary", ensure it accurately conveys spatial or conceptual adjacency, avoiding its misuse for general association. Consider alternatives such as "at the edge" or "bordering on" for nuanced expressions. Understanding these aspects ensures precise and effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the edge

Focuses on the spatial aspect of being at the limit.

at the limit

Highlights the concept of reaching a maximum or minimum extent.

at the periphery

Emphasizes a location that is not central or core.

bordering on

Implies adjacency and a close proximity to a limit or threshold.

at the threshold

Suggests being on the verge of a new state or condition.

in proximity to

Indicates nearness without necessarily being at the exact edge.

adjacent to

Highlights direct contact and shared limits.

at the interface

Focuses on the point where two distinct entities meet.

verging on

Suggests approaching a state or condition, often negative.

along the perimeter

Specifically refers to following the outer boundary of an area.

FAQs

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

Use "on the boundary" to indicate a location at the edge or limit of something, such as "The property is located on the boundary of the forest" or to describe something that exists at the intersection of two areas, like "This research is on the boundary between science and philosophy".

What phrases are similar to "on the boundary"?

Similar phrases include "at the edge", "at the limit", "bordering on", and "adjacent to". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say something is "on the boundary of" or "at the boundary of"?

Both "on the boundary of" and "at the boundary of" are grammatically correct and can be used interchangeably in many contexts. The choice often depends on stylistic preference.

How does "on the boundary" differ from "within the boundary"?

"On the boundary" indicates a location at the edge or limit, whereas "within the boundary" signifies a location inside the defined area. "The building is "within the boundary" of the park" means the building is inside the park; "The building is "on the boundary" of the park" means it is at the park's edge.