on the verge of retiring

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the verge of retiring" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that someone is very close to the point of retirement, often implying that the decision is imminent or that the person is preparing to retire soon. Example: "After decades of dedicated service, she is now on the verge of retiring and looking forward to her next chapter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Her husband is on the verge of retiring.

The New York Times

When asked whether Wallace was on the verge of retiring from pro basketball, Woodson said: "Absolutely not.

The New York Times

He recalled how, early in his career, he asked players on the verge of retiring if they had any regrets.

The New York Times - Sports

His hair is sandy gray and layered smartly short, and he is on the verge of retiring.

The New York Times - Sports

The period is the cold war 1950s, with Indy on the verge of retiring as a professor.

The Guardian

Arizona's battered quarterback, Kurt Warner, is feeling more than queasy these days, which is why ESPN.com's Rick Reilly believes he is on the verge of retiring.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

McCoy, on the verge of becoming champion jockey for the 20th consecutive year, announced last month he would retire by the end of the jump racing season, which concludes in Britain at Sandown on 25 April.

BBC

By the time he retired from playing for good in 2006, Pittsburgh was on the verge of losing hockey again.

The New York Times - Sports

Retired immigration Judge Paul Wickham Schmidt recently warned that the courts were on "the verge of collapse," threatening to implode under the weight of over half a million pending cases.

University of California, Berkeley

In 6 BC, on the verge of accepting command in the East and becoming the second most powerful man in Rome, Tiberius suddenly announced his withdrawal from politics and retired to Rhodes.

Wikipedia

It was on the verge of cohering.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on the verge of retiring" to create a sense of anticipation or transition in your writing, signaling a significant life change for the subject.

Common error

Avoid using "on the verge of retiring" if the person is only vaguely considering retirement. This phrase implies a near-certain and imminent decision, not just a possibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the verge of retiring" functions as a descriptive modifier, indicating a state close to retirement. It suggests an imminent transition from active work to retirement. Ludwig shows its usage in describing individuals from various professions.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

25%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on the verge of retiring" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe someone nearing retirement. Ludwig confirms its presence in various reputable sources, particularly in News & Media and Academia. While the phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, be mindful of the immediacy it implies. It's important to accurately represent the individual's situation. Consider alternatives like "about to retire" or "nearing retirement" depending on the context. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

about to retire

Directly indicates imminent retirement with less figurative language.

on the point of retiring

Similar to the original phrase, but uses "point" instead of "verge" to convey imminence.

on the cusp of retirement

Replaces "verge" with "cusp", suggesting a turning point or threshold.

on the brink of retirement

Uses "brink" to convey the imminence of retirement, implying a final stage.

nearing retirement

Emphasizes the process of approaching retirement, rather than the moment of decision.

close to retirement

Indicates proximity to retirement, similar in meaning but less dramatic.

planning to retire soon

Focuses on the intention and timing of retirement.

getting ready to retire

Focuses on readiness and anticipation of the retirement phase.

preparing for retirement

Highlights the actions taken in anticipation of retirement.

considering retirement

Highlights the thought process and evaluation leading up to retirement, rather than its imminence.

FAQs

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

To be "on the verge of retiring" means someone is very close to retiring, suggesting the decision is imminent or that preparations are actively underway. It implies a state of transition from active employment to retirement.

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

You can use "on the verge of retiring" to describe someone who is nearing the end of their career. For example: "After 30 years of service, she is "about to retire" and enjoy a well-deserved rest."

What are some alternatives to "on the verge of retiring"?

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

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

Yes, "on the verge of retiring" is suitable for formal writing, as it is grammatically correct and widely understood. However, consider whether a more direct alternative like "planning to retire soon" might be more appropriate depending on the context.