on the doorstep

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the doorstep" is correct and can be used in written English.
You can use it to refer to a literal doorstop or to mean "on the verge of", "about to" or "in the process of". For example: "The new project was on the doorstep of success when the pandemic struck."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

You sit on the doorstep.

The New Yorker

"On the doorstep it's quite difficult.

Independent

But connecting with someone on the doorstep?

Independent

"You get it on the doorstep.

Independent

I know what's on the doorstep".

The New York Times - Magazine

She stood on the doorstep preparing herself.

The New Yorker

It is also on the doorstep.

The Economist

She leaves the letter on the doorstep.

The New Yorker

We are hearing it on the doorstep.

Independent

M6 right on the doorstep.

The Guardian

The motorway network is on the doorstep.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the doorstep" to vividly describe something that is not only near but also immediately accessible or about to happen. For instance, "With the new funding, success is on the doorstep."

Common error

Avoid using "on the doorstep" when referring to extremely distant or improbable events. This phrase suggests a high degree of imminence or proximity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the doorstep" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, modifying nouns or verbs to indicate proximity or imminence. Examples from Ludwig show its use in both literal and figurative senses, as confirmed by Ludwig AI.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Formal & Business

15%

Science

10%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the doorstep" is a grammatically sound and frequently used prepositional phrase. It effectively conveys the idea of proximity or imminence, whether literal or figurative. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans various contexts, with a notable presence in news and media. While generally neutral in register, it's essential to consider more formal alternatives for certain academic or professional settings. To enhance clarity, avoid using it for extremely distant or improbable events. The phrase has several alternatives such as "just around the corner" or "at the threshold", depending on the specific meaning you want to convey.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the threshold

Similar to "on the doorstep" but more formal and emphasizes a point of transition.

just around the corner

Implies a short distance or time until something is reached or happens.

at the entrance

Focuses specifically on the physical location of an entry point.

in close proximity

Focuses on the nearness in terms of physical location.

close at hand

Highlights the ease of access or availability.

in the vicinity

Emphasizes being nearby, but not necessarily immediately adjacent.

within reach

Focuses on the attainability or accessibility of something.

on the horizon

Indicates that something is impending or about to occur in the near future.

imminent

Suggests that something is about to happen very soon.

forthcoming

Indicates that something is about to appear or be available.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the doorstep" to indicate that something is very close, either literally or figuratively. For example, "The solution to our problems is "on the doorstep" if we are willing to collaborate".

What are some alternatives to the phrase "on the doorstep"?

Alternatives to "on the doorstep" include "just around the corner", "within reach", or "close at hand". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to use "on the doorstep" in a formal setting?

While "on the doorstep" is generally acceptable, in very formal contexts, you might consider alternatives like "at the threshold" or "imminent", which may sound more polished.

What does it mean when someone says opportunity is "on the doorstep"?

When someone says opportunity is "on the doorstep", it means a favorable chance or possibility is very near and easily accessible. It suggests you should act quickly to take advantage of it.