on the frontier

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the frontier" is correct and can be used in written English.
For example, you might say: "We are on the frontier of scientific discovery, pushing the boundaries to learn more about the world around us."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He was one reportedly of the wealthiest men on the frontier.

Wikipedia

Life on the frontier was hard.

The New Yorker

He was on the frontier of things".

The New York Times

You're not on the frontier.

Yale University

Perhaps especially on the frontier.

The Guardian

"There are people on the frontier now".

The New York Times

It's usually been concentrated on the frontier".

The Guardian

During these years he served on the frontier.

The New York Times

"It's not easy living on the frontier," he added.

The Guardian

A solitary individual lives on the frontier of vulnerability.

The New York Times - Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Nearly a century on, the frontier-town reputation endures.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the frontier" to describe an area of innovation or research, ensure the context clearly indicates whether you're referring to a literal boundary or a metaphorical one. For instance, "on the frontier of medical science" implies cutting-edge research, whereas "on the frontier of the newly settled lands" evokes a sense of pioneering and exploration.

Common error

Avoid using "on the frontier" when a more specific term is appropriate. While versatile, it can be vague. For example, instead of saying "the company is on the frontier", specify if they are leaders "in sustainable energy" or "in AI development".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the frontier" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier to describe location, state, or condition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage and wide applicability, showcasing its role in various contexts ranging from literal geographical boundaries to abstract areas of innovation.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

22%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Science

18%

Encyclopedias

2%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the frontier" is a versatile and grammatically sound prepositional phrase widely used to denote being at the leading edge or boundary of something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, its usage spans various contexts, from literal geographical locations to abstract areas like scientific research and innovation. With a high frequency of occurrence in news, academic, and wiki sources, it maintains a neutral to formal register, making it suitable for diverse writing scenarios. When using this phrase, ensure its scope is clear and consider more specific alternatives if greater precision is needed. This wrap-up synthesizes the key findings, providing a comprehensive understanding of the phrase's usage and relevance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the cutting edge

Refers to being at the most advanced or innovative stage of development in a particular field.

on the leading edge

Similar to "on the cutting edge", emphasizing the advanced and innovative aspect.

at the forefront

Indicates being in a leading or prominent position, especially in an activity or field; implies leadership or innovation.

at the forefront of progress

Implies being in a leading position in advancing development or improvement.

at the edge of innovation

Focuses on being involved with the newest and most advanced ideas or technologies.

in the vanguard

Implies being in the leading position in a trend, movement or field.

in uncharted territory

Refers to being in an area or situation that is unknown or unexplored, often implying risk or adventure.

at the boundary

Suggests being located at the edge or limit of something, either physically or conceptually.

at the outer limits

Highlights being at the furthest extent or boundary, often implying exploration or pushing boundaries.

on the periphery

Suggests being on the outer edges or boundaries, often implying a less central or mainstream position.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the frontier" to describe something at the edge of known development or a literal border. For example, "The scientist is working on the frontier of quantum physics", or "The town was on the frontier during the westward expansion".

What is a good alternative to "on the frontier"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "at the forefront", "on the cutting edge", or "in uncharted territory".

Is it correct to say "at the frontier" instead of "on the frontier"?

While "at the frontier" might be grammatically acceptable in certain contexts, "on the frontier" is the more idiomatic and commonly used phrase. It's generally safer to stick with "on the frontier" for broader applicability.

What does it mean to be "on the frontier" of something?

To be "on the frontier" of something means to be at the leading edge, boundary, or most advanced stage of development in a particular field or area. It suggests exploration, innovation, and pushing the limits of what is known or possible.