the threshold of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the threshold of" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when referring to a point at which something suddenly changes or starts to happen. For example, "The team has reached the threshold of success now that they have made it to the playoffs."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

These determine the threshold of hearing.

The Economist

"That lies just under the threshold of pain".

The New York Times - Tech

There is a cat on the threshold of No. 228.

The New Yorker

And we are on the threshold of incredible advances.

The New York Times

"We also lowered the threshold of risk," he said.

The New York Times

Miss V. would stand on the threshold of the d.j.j

The New Yorker

Mentions his book, "Crossing the Threshold of Hope".

The New Yorker

Kotkin walks us to the threshold of Stalin's Terror slowly.

The New Yorker

The ancient god of the threshold, of beginnings and endings.

The New Yorker

He stripped at the threshold of his mother's apartment door.

The New York Times - Magazine

It promised an England on the threshold of something wonderful.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Combine "the threshold of" with powerful nouns that evoke transformation or potential. For example, "the threshold of innovation", "the threshold of discovery", or "the threshold of a new era" can enhance the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "the threshold of" when referring to physical doorways or entryways. This phrase is most effective when used metaphorically to describe a transition point or a beginning of something abstract or significant.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the threshold of" functions as a prepositional phrase that typically modifies a noun, adjective, or verb by indicating a boundary, a starting point, or a state of transition. It suggests being at the cusp of a new phase or experience. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in a variety of contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

48%

Science

25%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the threshold of" is a versatile and grammatically sound phrase used to denote a pivotal point preceding a significant change or new beginning. As validated by Ludwig AI, this phrase is most effective when used metaphorically to add a sense of anticipation and importance. While "the threshold of" is frequently found in news, science, and business contexts, remember to avoid using it literally for physical entryways. Consider alternatives like "the brink of" or "the cusp of" for nuanced meanings. By following these guidelines, you can effectively incorporate "the threshold of" into your writing to convey a sense of potential and transformation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the brink of

Emphasizes being close to a significant event or change.

the cusp of

Suggests a point of transition between two different states or periods.

the verge of

Similar to "brink", but can also imply a sense of anticipation or excitement.

on the edge of

Conveys a sense of instability or precariousness before a change.

the doorway to

Implies an entrance or opportunity leading to something new.

the gateway to

Similar to "doorway", often used metaphorically for significant transitions.

at the start of

Focuses on the beginning or initiation of a process or event.

the opening of

Suggests the commencement or unveiling of something.

the initial stage of

Highlights the very first phase or step in a progression.

the boundary of

Indicates a limit or border that, once crossed, leads to a different condition.

FAQs

How can I use "the threshold of" in a sentence?

Use "the threshold of" to indicate the starting point or imminent beginning of something new. For example, "The company is on "the threshold of" a major breakthrough", or "We stand at "the threshold of" a new era in medicine".

What are some alternatives to "the threshold of"?

Alternatives include "the brink of", "the cusp of", "the verge of", or "on the edge of", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Each phrase offers a slightly different shade of meaning related to being near a transition or change.

Is it correct to say "at the threshold of" instead of "on the threshold of"?

While both prepositions can be used, "on the threshold of" is generally more common and idiomatic. "At the threshold of" isn't necessarily incorrect, but it is less frequently used.

What's the difference between "the threshold of" and "the limit of"?

"The threshold of" suggests a point of entry or a beginning, whereas "the limit of" indicates a boundary or the furthest extent of something. For instance, "the threshold of pain" refers to the point at which pain begins to be felt, while "the limit of pain" would refer to the maximum tolerable level of pain.