on the cusp of retirement

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the cusp of retirement" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is nearing the age of retirement and is on the brink of starting a new stage of life. For example, "John is on the cusp of retirement and is looking forward to finally having the time to travel the world."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Film

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

18 human-written examples

That is why it is crucial, especially if you are on the cusp of retirement or recently retired, to look closely at how your portfolio is invested.

The New York Times

The film finds Reynolds, now in her mid-80s, on the cusp of retirement and planning one last hurrah variety show in Vegas, much to the chagrin of Fisher, who would rather she rest.

The Guardian - Film

But the evidence so far says we're not doing well with this project: one-third of all Americans have zero savings for retirement, and even those on the cusp of retirement have nest eggs that will provide an average of just about $7000 a year.

Huffington Post

No wonder a quarter of people on the cusp of retirement can't afford to give up work.

The Guardian

This goes for everyone, whether you're on the cusp of retirement or you already consider golf your full-time occupation.

The New York Times

While they have lived frugally, amassing about $720,000 in savings, they have the same reservations that vex many Americans on the cusp of retirement.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

The Lakers are 2-14, last in the Western Conference, and have a mess of a team with on-the-cusp-of-retirement Kobe Bryant taking and missing way too many shots.

Huffington Post

It's different for those of us on the cusp of work and retirement.

The Guardian

Why bother with all the heartache, the lost friendships, the strain of trying to find a place in a different political tribe, if you are on the cusp of a graceful retirement from public life?

The Guardian

This generation on the cusp of great change has not programmed their retirement finances properly, said Dr. Radha Murthy, an elder care pioneer and medical practitioner, whose nonprofit Nightingales Medical Trust organized the job fair.

The New York Times

"I think we've got a shot," said Querrey, when asked if American men's tennis, which has been in the doldrums since the retirement of those three great players, was on the cusp of a revival.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the cusp of retirement", ensure it's clear whether you're referring to the person's age, career stage, or financial readiness. Provide context to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid assuming that someone "on the cusp of retirement" is financially secure. The phrase describes proximity to retirement age, not necessarily preparedness. Verify financial stability separately.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the cusp of retirement" functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a noun, typically a person or group of people. It indicates that the subject is in a transitional stage, nearing the point of retirement. Ludwig confirms this is a standard and appropriate English expression.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Film

8%

Formal & Business

7%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the cusp of retirement" is a common and grammatically sound way to describe someone approaching retirement, as confirmed by Ludwig. It's versatile, appearing frequently in news, film, and business contexts. While it effectively conveys proximity to retirement, it's crucial to remember that it doesn't inherently imply financial security or preparedness. Therefore, further context may be needed to provide a complete picture. When writing, remember that several alternative phrases, such as "nearing retirement age" or "approaching retirement", can be used to express a similar meaning, as showcased by Ludwig's examples. This makes "on the cusp of retirement" a useful and readily understood phrase when discussing individuals in this transitional phase of life.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearing retirement age

This alternative focuses on the age aspect of approaching retirement.

approaching retirement

This phrase is a more direct and simple way of saying "on the cusp of retirement".

close to retirement

This alternative emphasizes the proximity to the retirement event.

about to retire

This phrase indicates an imminent transition to retirement.

in the final stages of a career

This alternative focuses on career progression and the end point.

preparing for retirement

This alternative emphasizes the act of getting ready for retirement.

planning retirement

This phrase highlights the planning phase before retirement.

transitioning to retirement

This alternative focuses on the process of moving into retirement.

contemplating retirement

This phrase implies a thoughtful consideration of retirement.

eyeing retirement

This alternative suggests looking forward to the idea of retirement.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the cusp of retirement" to describe someone who is nearing retirement age. For example: "Many baby boomers are "on the cusp of retirement" and considering their next chapter."

What are some alternatives to saying "on the cusp of retirement"?

Alternatives include "nearing retirement age", "approaching retirement", or "about to retire". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it accurate to use "on the cusp of retirement" for someone who is financially unprepared?

While "on the cusp of retirement" refers to nearing the retirement age or stage, it doesn't necessarily imply financial preparedness. It's important to assess financial readiness separately.

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

"On the cusp of retirement" describes someone who is nearing retirement, while "already retired" indicates that someone has officially stopped working. One is a future state, and the other is a current or past state.