on the perimeter

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the perimeter" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
It is typically used to describe something or someone located on the edge or boundary of a certain area or space. It can be used in both formal and informal writing. Example: The security guards were stationed on the perimeter of the event, ensuring no one entered without a proper ticket.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"Defending star players is one, particularly on the perimeter".

The New York Times - Sports

He is a brilliant one-on-one player, both on the perimeter and in the post.

The New York Times - Sports

Even the men on the perimeter ensured that no one could escape.

Huffington Post

Most occur on the perimeter.

The New York Times - Sports

Weaknesses: At his best on the perimeter.

The Guardian - Sport

Pressuring more on the perimeter on defense.

The New York Times - Sports

Still, he wanted to play on the perimeter.

The New York Times - Sports

They extended on the perimeter and applied full-court pressure.

The New York Times - Sports

When he dribbled on the perimeter, he was booed.

The New York Times - Sports

There has been good progress on the perimeter.

The New York Times - Sports

"And you have to guard him out on the perimeter.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In security contexts, specify what is being protected by those "on the perimeter". For example, "guards on the perimeter of the building" rather than simply "guards on the perimeter".

Common error

Avoid using "in the perimeter" as it implies being enclosed within a boundary, whereas "on the perimeter" correctly indicates being located along the outer edge. Use "in" when referring to something contained within a defined area and "on" when referring to the boundary itself.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the perimeter" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs to indicate location or position at the outer boundary of a defined area or space, as evidenced by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

20%

Academia

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the perimeter" is a versatile prepositional phrase used to indicate a location along the outer edge of a defined area. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and highlights its common usage across diverse contexts like news, science, and sports. To ensure clarity, it's essential to distinguish its meaning from similar phrases like "in the perimeter" and to consider the specific context. Mastering such nuances enhances precision in both writing and communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the edge

Focuses on the boundary itself rather than the area around it.

along the boundary

Emphasizes a linear position following the boundary line.

at the margin

Highlights a less central, often weaker or less defined position.

on the outskirts

Implies a location just beyond the main area or center.

bordering on

Suggests adjacency or proximity to a border or limit.

surrounding

Indicates encompassing or encircling something.

at the periphery

Emphasizes a position that is remote from the center.

on the fringe

Implies a position at the very edge, often with a sense of being outside the norm.

around the edge

Similar to "at the edge", but emphasizes movement or distribution.

at the outskirt

Focuses on the edge of a town, city or built-up area.

FAQs

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

You can use "on the perimeter" to describe a location or activity at the edge of an area. For instance, "Security guards patrolled "at the edge" of the property", or "The shooters stood "along the boundary", ready to fire".

What phrases are similar to "on the perimeter"?

Similar phrases include ""at the edge"", ""along the boundary"", and "at the margin". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "in the perimeter" instead of "on the perimeter"?

While similar, "in the perimeter" implies being inside the defined area, whereas "on the perimeter" means being located "bordering on" its edge. The correct choice depends on the intended meaning.

What does "on the perimeter" mean in a sports context?

In sports, "on the perimeter" typically refers to the area outside the free-throw lane or three-point line in basketball. Players positioned "at the periphery" are usually responsible for long-range shots and preventing the opposing team from scoring from that area.