on the cusp between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the cusp between" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation in which something is in between two extremes and is on the point of changing. For example, "The economy is on the cusp between recession and recovery."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

In one direction: an author of two literary, daring and original travelogues about life on the cusp between wilderness and civilization, who is also a gifted miniaturist of the city à la Joseph Mitchell.

The New York Times

Beryl moved uniquely on the cusp between a finely self-mocking wit and steely seriousness.

The Guardian - Books

His dances occur on the cusp between pure dance and characterization; his stage worlds abound in intimate human incidents.

The New York Times - Arts

His figures balance on the cusp between Late Gothic and the Renaissance, which Albrecht Durer, 10 years his junior, would initiate in Northern Europe.

The New York Times - Arts

Factory Floor 25 25 Trimmed down to a duo, Factory Floor returned with a stark album all about propulsion, on the cusp between the dancefloor and hydraulics.

The Guardian - Music

Mr. Chiasson's flight at the top of the show, on the cusp between lyric and heroic, is remarkable in this respect.

The New York Times - Arts

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

People will continue to make what they mean to be complimentary comparisons between this valley-on-the-cusp and the memory of Napa-as-it-once-was.

The New York Times

The strongest electric field occurs in the cusp between pores.

Nanoscale Research Letters

According to Prof. Jerome Leitner of Brooklyn Law School, "Handing out cards in a public place is on the cusp, somewhere between permitted advertising and prohibited solicitation, and a definitive answer cannot be given, except that most lawyers would find it unspeakably tacky".

The New York Times - Magazine

BACKPACKING on the seasonal cusp between fall and winter offers the chance to experience the forest in transition.

The New York Times - Travel

The ballet stays on the curious cusp between kitsch and high art.

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the cusp between" to describe something undergoing a transition from one distinct state to another. For example, "The company is on the cusp between being a startup and a large corporation."

Common error

Avoid using "on the cusp between" when you simply mean 'a combination of' or 'influenced by'. The phrase specifically implies a transition, not just a blending of elements.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the cusp between" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or clause to indicate a transitional state. Ludwig's examples show it describing entities poised between two distinct conditions, highlighting a moment of change or uncertainty. It is grammatically correct, according to Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the cusp between" is a prepositional phrase used to describe something in transition between two distinct states. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability. With numerous examples across various sources, it's a common and versatile phrase. Predominantly found in News & Media, its neutral register makes it suitable for formal and informal contexts. When using it, ensure that you accurately convey the sense of transition rather than simple combination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

in transition between

Focuses on the transitional aspect, highlighting the movement from one state to another. More direct and less figurative.

straddling the line between

Implies a balancing act, with something positioned on either side of a boundary.

poised between

Emphasizes readiness and potential, suggesting an imminent shift from one state to another.

at the intersection of

Emphasizes the point where two things meet or overlap, suggesting a shared space rather than a transition.

in a state of flux between

Emphasizes the dynamic and changing nature of the situation, highlighting the instability and uncertainty involved.

hovering between

Suggests uncertainty or a lack of commitment to either state, implying a temporary or unstable position.

in an intermediate phase between

More formal and technical, indicating a stage between two defined points in a process or development.

caught between

Highlights a sense of being trapped or conflicted between two opposing forces or choices.

at the crossroads of

Highlights a moment of decision or a point where different paths converge.

bordering on

Suggests a close proximity to a particular state, implying that it almost reaches or resembles it.

FAQs

How can I use "on the cusp between" in a sentence?

Use "on the cusp between" to indicate that something is transitioning from one state to another. For instance, "The technology is "on the cusp between" development and widespread adoption."

What are some alternatives to "on the cusp between"?

You can use phrases like "in transition between", "at the intersection of", or "straddling the line between" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it appropriate to use "on the cusp between" in formal writing?

Yes, "on the cusp between" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when describing transitional phases or states, as demonstrated by its usage in sources like "The New York Times" and "The Guardian".

What's the difference between ""on the cusp between"" and "on the verge of"?

"On the cusp between" implies a state of transition between two defined conditions, while "on the verge of" indicates being close to experiencing a specific event or state.