on the cusp of becoming

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the cusp of becoming" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is very close to achieving a particular state or condition. Example: "The company is on the cusp of becoming a leader in sustainable technology."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Outlook -- Ray Allen is on the cusp of becoming one of the game's top five players.

The New York Times - Sports

But Purdue is on the cusp of becoming one of the chic programs in college basketball, and that's because of an influx of talented young players and a shift in offensive philosophy under the third-year coach Matt Painter.

The New York Times

Afterward, she was beaming, aware that she is on the cusp of becoming one of the best in the world in her weight class and perhaps good enough to earn an Olympic medal.

The New York Times - Sports

He said he was seeking to "get the word out that one of America's most pristine ecosystems is on the cusp of becoming industrialized".

The New York Times

That is why Butler is on the cusp of becoming a familiar face, albeit a thoroughly appealing one.

The New York Times - Sports

"It's on the cusp of becoming something big".

The New York Times - Arts

Here is where food products minutes away from expiration hover, on the cusp of becoming compost.

The New York Times - Magazine

On the cusp of becoming a thing but not quite at their tipping point yet.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

It is on the cusp of becoming mainstream, but it's not quite there yet.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I tend to write about girls who are on the cusp of becoming.

The Guardian

Ben Ainslie of Britain is on the cusp of becoming among the most decorated Olympic sailors ever.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the cusp of becoming" to convey a sense of anticipation and potential, suggesting that a significant change or achievement is imminent. This phrase works well in contexts where progress and future possibilities are being discussed.

Common error

Avoid using "on the cusp of becoming" to describe something that has already fully transformed. The phrase implies an ongoing process nearing completion, not a past event. For example, instead of saying "The caterpillar was on the cusp of becoming a butterfly" after it has already emerged, say "The caterpillar has become a butterfly".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the cusp of becoming" functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or pronoun, indicating that the subject is nearing a significant transformation or achievement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes a state of near-completion. Examples show it describing people, organizations, and even abstract concepts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the cusp of becoming" is a versatile idiom used to express that something is nearing a significant transformation or achievement. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently used, particularly in news and media contexts. It conveys a sense of anticipation and potential, highlighting that a new state is imminent. When using the phrase, ensure it accurately reflects an ongoing process nearing completion, and not a past event. Consider alternatives like "on the verge of becoming" or "about to become" to fine-tune the specific nuance you wish to express.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of becoming

Shares a similar meaning of impending change but suggests a more immediate transition.

about to become

More direct and less figurative, indicating an imminent change.

nearing the point of becoming

More descriptive and less idiomatic, highlighting the progression towards a new state.

approaching the state of becoming

Formal and emphasizes the process of transformation rather than the immediacy.

on the brink of transforming into

Implies a significant change and a point of no return.

at the threshold of becoming

More formal and suggests a gateway to a new state.

on the edge of evolving into

Highlights a gradual development and transformation.

close to morphing into

Suggests a more dramatic or unexpected transformation.

in the process of turning into

Focuses on the ongoing action and gradual nature of the transformation.

moving towards becoming

Emphasizes directionality and the journey towards a new state.

FAQs

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

Use "on the cusp of becoming" to indicate that something is very close to transitioning into a new state or achieving a significant milestone. For example, "The company is "on the cusp of becoming" a market leader".

What phrases are similar to "on the cusp of becoming"?

Similar phrases include "on the verge of becoming", "about to become", and "nearing the point of becoming". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

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

Yes, "on the cusp of becoming" is appropriate for formal writing. It is a well-established idiom that is understood and accepted in professional and academic contexts.

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

"On the cusp of becoming" suggests that the transformation is not yet complete but is very close to happening. "Already becoming" indicates that the process is underway and is in progress.