on the verge of death

USAGE SUMMARY

"on the verge of death" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to express that someone or something is in a severely weakened state and close to dying. Example: After suffering for months, the old man was on the verge of death.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Instead, he was put into one of the huts reserved for those on the verge of death.

The Guardian

Plus one of the original marathon organizers was now on the verge of death (not unexpected).

The New Yorker

"She was always on the verge of death.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

When Vivian was fourteen, her mother became sick and was on the verge of death.

The New Yorker

Instead, many come in on stretchers on the verge of death.

The Economist

The young boy, emaciated and unable to recognize anyone, is on the verge of death.

The New York Times

Fifty-two inmates atwowo hospitals in Ankara are on the verge of death.

The New York Times

Or is it seeing an old man on the verge of death?" (Glauber's father had cancer).

The New Yorker

After two days, Mr. Castro appeared "on the verge of death," Mr. Reaños said.

The New York Times

Jeannie also narrates the book as J. A. McCullough, an old woman on the verge of death.

The New York Times - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Returning to Cedar Lane a month later, Cheever appeared to be on the verge of death an impression he soon confirmed by coughing uncontrollably and turning blue.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the verge of death" to convey a sense of urgency and imminence when describing a critical condition or situation. It's particularly effective when you want to emphasize the precariousness of a moment.

Common error

Avoid using "on the verge of death" in situations that are merely difficult or challenging, not life-threatening. Overusing the phrase diminishes its impact and can sound melodramatic.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the verge of death" functions as an adjectival phrase, modifying a noun or pronoun to describe its state. Ludwig examples show it accurately indicates nearness to death, describing a state of being close to dying, whether literal or figurative.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Science

13%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the verge of death" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe a state of being extremely close to dying. As Ludwig AI confirms, it accurately conveys the imminence of death in various contexts. While its register is generally neutral, it's important to consider the audience and tone when choosing this phrase, especially in formal or scientific settings. Alternatives like "at death's door" or "nearing one's demise" may be more appropriate depending on the situation. Remember to use the phrase judiciously to avoid diminishing its impact and potential melodramatic effect.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at death's door

Emphasizes proximity to death, often suggesting illness or frailty.

close to the end

Focuses on the finality of life's journey, suggesting a natural conclusion.

nearing one's demise

A more formal way to describe approaching death, highlighting the end of existence.

in the throes of death

Highlights the struggle and suffering associated with the dying process.

with one foot in the grave

An idiomatic expression indicating advanced age or severe illness.

on the brink of expiration

Focuses on the imminent cessation of life, often used in a clinical or detached manner.

facing imminent death

Directly addresses the inevitability and closeness of death.

in a terminal state

Indicates an irreversible and fatal condition.

at the last gasp

Emphasizes the final moments before death, suggesting a desperate struggle.

breathing one's last

Describes the act of dying, focusing on the final breaths of life.

FAQs

How can I use "on the verge of death" in a sentence?

You can use "on the verge of death" to describe someone or something in a state of extreme peril or nearing the end of its existence. For example: "The patient was "on the verge of death" after the accident".

What are some alternatives to saying "on the verge of death"?

Alternatives include "at death's door", "close to the end", or "nearing one's demise". The best choice depends on the specific context and the desired level of formality.

Is it appropriate to use "on the verge of death" in formal writing?

While grammatically correct, "on the verge of death" may be considered less formal than alternatives like "facing imminent death" or "in a terminal state". Consider your audience and the tone of your writing.

What does it mean to be "on the verge of death"?

To be "on the verge of death" means that someone or something is very close to dying. It implies a critical state where survival is unlikely without intervention or a significant change in circumstances.