over the ledge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "over the ledge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where something is positioned or moved beyond the edge of a ledge, often implying a sense of danger or risk. Example: "He leaned too far over the ledge, trying to get a better view of the valley below."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

36 human-written examples

Clusters of cocktail sippers nabbed the scattered dining tables, while others took over the ledge above the tables to ogle the fancy foot traffic.

The New York Times - Style

That same Brother probably looked the other way when, one night, after the time it takes for a fertilized egg to ripen into a baby and enter the world, John fashioned a robe from strips of the cloth that covered his pallet, tossed it over the ledge of his high window, and hoisted himself out of hell.

Huffington Post

They throw the casket over the ledge, and they cross themselves.

The New York Times

One cannot help but feel that the young woman's spirit springs over the ledge as well.

The New Yorker

I feel his pain and pride for what pushed him over the ledge.

The Guardian - Sport

The difference between winning a championship and falling over the ledge is slim.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

These values continue to motivate window washers to climb over the ledges of high-rise buildings on many mornings all over the Chicago skyline.

The New York Times

This nomenclature distinction matters to Markham because he feels that misinformation has been at the heart of the battle over the Ledges.

The New Yorker

Five levels of white balcony, small green plants spilling over the ledges, rise up toward the ceiling from the atrium, shops on the first two floors, restaurants and a cinema on the third, an arcade and a game room, mostly for kids, on the fourth, complete with a bumper-car track, and then, on the fifth, the beach.

The New Yorker

While others climbed Huayna Picchu (a daunting and steep ascent), I spent the day painting, and hoping that nothing would crawl up my leg dangling over the ledges, or on me from the grass.

Huffington Post

I must have stood on the ledge over the gorge for about five minutes.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "over the ledge" when you want to express a situation of exceeding a safe limit or boundary. It is particularly effective in describing precarious situations or risky behaviors.

Common error

Avoid using "over the ledge" literally when a more precise term exists. While it works well metaphorically, using it for actual ledges requires careful consideration to avoid ambiguity. For example, use "beyond the edge" or "past the brink" for literal descriptions of something going beyond the edge.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "over the ledge" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to modify a verb, indicating direction or state. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is valid and usable in writing. Examples include descriptions of physical actions or metaphorical scenarios where something has crossed a limit.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "over the ledge" is a valid and usable prepositional phrase that describes exceeding a physical or metaphorical boundary, often implying risk or danger. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability in writing. While generally neutral in register, it is most commonly found in News & Media and Wiki contexts. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly conveys the intended sense of exceeding a limit, and consider alternatives like "past the brink" or "beyond the edge" for greater precision. Remember to differentiate it from being "on the edge", which suggests proximity to, but not crossing, the limit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

past the brink

Emphasizes the final point before a dangerous or irreversible situation.

beyond the edge

Indicates a position that exceeds the physical boundary of something.

at the breaking point

Focuses on reaching a limit where something is about to fail or collapse.

on the verge

Suggests being very close to a significant event or state.

close to the limit

Highlights proximity to a maximum allowable extent.

near the precipice

Implies being dangerously close to a critical or disastrous situation.

at the turning point

Signifies a moment where a significant change is about to occur.

on the edge of disaster

Specifically indicates nearness to a catastrophic outcome.

in a precarious position

Highlights instability and potential for adverse outcomes.

risking everything

Focuses on the act of placing all assets or chances at stake.

FAQs

How can I use "over the ledge" in a sentence?

You can use "over the ledge" to describe physical scenarios like "The vase fell "over the ledge"" or metaphorical situations like "His constant spending pushed him "over the ledge" and into debt".

What's a good alternative to "over the ledge" when describing a risky situation?

Alternatives include "past the brink", "on the verge", or "near the precipice", which all convey a sense of impending danger or irreversible consequences.

Is it correct to use "over the ledge" to describe someone's emotional state?

Yes, "over the ledge" can be used metaphorically to describe someone who is emotionally overwhelmed or has reached their breaking point. For example, "The pressure at work drove him "over the ledge"".

What's the difference between "over the ledge" and "on the edge"?

"Over the ledge" implies that someone or something has already crossed a critical boundary or limit, while "on the edge" suggests being close to that limit but not quite exceeding it. For example, being "on the edge" means you are not yet "over the ledge", but you could be soon.