on the brink

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the brink" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to describe a situation that is close to happening, or on the verge of happening. For example: "The city was on the brink of economic collapse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

We're on the brink".

The New York Times

Madrid on the brink.

The New York Times

Egypt hovers on the brink.

The Guardian - Opinion

"We are on the brink.

The New York Times

"They're on the brink of disaster.

The New Yorker

Kosovo on the brink, again Euroland, ahoy!

The Economist

Donatella was on the brink emotionally.

The New Yorker

They stand on the brink of life.

The New York Times - Arts

CENTRAL AFRICA is on the brink.

The Economist

"Pakistan is right on the brink.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

^ "Afghanistan on the Brink, Part 1". Foreign Policy Afghanistan on the Brink Part 1 Comments.

Stanford University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the specific context when using "on the brink". It is most effective when describing situations with high emotional or practical significance, such as economic crises, wars, or personal turning points.

Common error

Avoid using "on the brink" to describe trivial or commonplace events. This can diminish its impact and make your writing seem melodramatic. Reserve it for truly critical junctures.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the brink" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb. It indicates that something is about to happen, often something significant or critical. Ludwig AI confirms this usage, offering examples like "Europe is on the brink of recession" from The Economist.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Formal & Business

6%

Science

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the brink" is a common and versatile expression used to describe a situation that is close to a significant event or outcome. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and suitable for use in written English. Its primary function is to convey a sense of imminence, often associated with critical or dangerous situations. Commonly found in News & Media, the phrase is less frequent in academia or informal settings. When using "on the brink", consider synonyms like "on the verge of" or "on the edge of" to add variety to your writing. Avoid overuse in minor situations to maintain its impact and ensure your writing remains precise and effective.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of

This is the closest synonym, differing only slightly in emphasis. It suggests a more immediate transition.

on the edge of

Implies a precarious position, emphasizing instability and the potential for a sudden change.

on the cusp of

Suggests being at a turning point or a moment of significant change.

on the threshold of

Implies the beginning of a new experience or phase, emphasizing entry into something new.

close to

A more general term, less dramatic than "on the brink" but still indicating proximity.

nearing

Suggests gradual approach to a certain point, reducing the imminence of the event.

approaching

Similar to 'nearing', this indicates a less immediate arrival than 'on the brink'.

about to

Specifies immediate future intention, focusing on actions rather than overall situations.

at the point of

This phrase emphasizes the specific moment of transition or change.

in danger of

Focuses specifically on a negative outcome that is likely to occur, adding a sense of threat.

FAQs

How is "on the brink" used in a sentence?

The phrase "on the brink" describes a situation that is very close to occurring, especially something momentous or dangerous. For example, "The company was "on the brink of bankruptcy"".

What's a good synonym for "on the brink"?

A close synonym is "on the verge of", which carries a similar meaning of being close to a particular state or event. Other alternatives include "on the edge of" or "close to".

Is it better to say "on the brink of" or "on the verge of"?

Both "on the brink of" and "on the verge of" are correct and nearly interchangeable. The choice often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations, as they convey a similar sense of imminence.

Can "on the brink" be used for positive situations?

While "on the brink" is often used in negative contexts, it can also describe the cusp of a positive breakthrough or achievement. For example, "Scientists are "on the brink of a major discovery"".