standing on the threshold

USAGE SUMMARY

"standing on the threshold" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to the moment of making an important decision or beginning a new endeavor. For example, "The young woman stood on the threshold of a new career opportunity, anxious but excited."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

26 human-written examples

As Frank heads onstage to wow his public, Odets leaves Georgie standing on the threshold between the real world and the play one, waiting to see how the finale of her own drama will turn out.

The New Yorker

Some people are willing to be hosts, but no one wants to get in the car and be Colin Firth, standing on the threshold of someone else's house with an armful of presents.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

But she found police officers standing on the threshold.

The Guardian

So today, Britain and Russia are once again standing on the threshold of a possible strategic partnership.

The Guardian

A man and a woman standing on the threshold of an open door, invite me to have a look.

The New York Times - Magazine

"I think we are standing on the threshold of a huge opportunity to actually get something done," he said.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

I am standing on the stone threshold of a Palladian country house, watching them intently.

The Guardian - Arts

Judging by her recital at Zankel Hall on Monday, the 21-year-old Japanese violinist Mayuko Kamio is standing on the gilded threshold.

The New York Times - Arts

Now put them in a line, standing on the edge, and ready to cross that retirement threshold.

Forbes

The tepee standing on the lawn.

The New York Times

Now imagine yourself standing on the roof.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "standing on the threshold" to evoke a sense of anticipation and possibility. It works best when describing a moment of significant change or decision.

Common error

Avoid using "standing on the threshold" in overly casual contexts. Its slightly elevated tone makes it more suitable for formal writing or situations where you want to add a touch of gravitas.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "standing on the threshold" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier to describe the state of a subject at a crucial juncture. It is usually followed by another prepositional phrase introduced by of or to and a noun phrase to indicate what lies ahead. As Ludwig AI clarifies, the phrase correctly depicts the beginning of a new undertaking.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

37%

Science

13%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "standing on the threshold" is a prepositional phrase used to describe a state of anticipation and potential change. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. It leans toward formal usage, appearing in news and encyclopedic contexts. While less common in everyday speech, its impact lies in emphasizing the significance of a moment and the possibilities it holds. Using related phrases like "on the verge of" or "at the cusp of" can provide variety, while being mindful of the slightly elevated tone ensures its appropriate application.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the verge of

Focuses more on the imminence of an event.

at the cusp of

Emphasizes being at a turning point or boundary.

on the brink of

Highlights the precariousness or potential danger of the situation.

at the gateway to

Conveys a sense of entering a new and significant phase.

at the opening of

Suggests a beginning or unveiling of something new.

approaching the start of

More descriptive and less metaphorical, focusing on the commencement.

nearing the dawn of

Emphasizes the hopeful and illuminating aspects of a new beginning.

on the horizon

Focuses on the anticipation and visibility of a future event.

at the commencement of

Formal and emphasizes the official beginning of something.

in anticipation of

Highlights the feeling of looking forward to something.

FAQs

How can I use "standing on the threshold" in a sentence?

You can use "standing on the threshold" to describe a point of transition or anticipation. For example, "The company is "standing on the threshold" of a new era of innovation".

What does "standing on the threshold" typically imply?

"Standing on the threshold" often implies a moment of significant decision-making or the beginning of a new phase, suggesting both opportunity and uncertainty.

What are some alternatives to "standing on the threshold"?

Alternatives include "on the verge of", "at the cusp of", or "on the brink of", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "standing on the threshold" formal or informal?

"Standing on the threshold" leans towards the formal side. While understandable in most contexts, it's most appropriate for formal writing or speech. Using alternatives like "about to begin" would be appropriate in informal contexts.