verging on extinction

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "verging on extinction" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a species or entity that is close to becoming extinct or no longer existing. Example: "The population of the rare bird species is verging on extinction due to habitat loss and climate change."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

The storied sect is verging on extinction.

The Washington Post

We have talked for nearly three years about how the Tea Party is terrorizing the Republican establishment, until the old country-club, deal-making model was verging on extinction.

The New York Times

The spotted owl -- the same rare bird that a decade ago gave the American environmental movement one of its greatest victories in saving an endangered species and its forest habitat in the Pacific Northwest -- is verging on extinction in Canada.

The New York Times

The exhibit aims to promote awareness to city dwellers about the range of magnificent wildlife now verging on extinction.

Forbes

With the investment of tens of millions of dollars and extraordinary effort by scientists, North America’s largest bird, the California condor, is staging a spectacular comeback after verging on extinction 25 years ago.

Forbes

Under these conditions and for the parameter choices analyzed by Yahara et al. [ 29] the average frequency of alleles with functional HEG is low, often verging on extinction during each cycle of the trajectory.

BMC Evolutionary Biology

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

At the other extreme, the Japanese ibis (Nipponia nippon) is on the verge of extinction, only one small colony being known.

Encyclopedia Britannica

We have addressed many of the most dramatic and visible issues: the bald eagle on the verge of extinction, the Cuyahoga River on fire, the smokestacks belching fumes in our cities.

The New York Times

Local news outlets, which depend on advertising to keep the lights on, are on the verge of extinction.

The Guardian - Opinion

IFM (1994) "Russia's favourite fish on verge of extinction" in Fish.

Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations

By the end of the century, one in 10 species could be on the verge of extinction because of the effects of global warming, a study has found.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing a situation as "verging on extinction", ensure you provide context by specifying what is at risk. For instance, mention the species, tradition, or practice that is nearing extinction to give the statement more weight and clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "verging on extinction" lightly. The phrase should be reserved for situations where there is a genuine and significant risk of disappearance, not for minor inconveniences or temporary setbacks. Save this strong phrasing for when the threat is real.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "verging on extinction" functions as a descriptive phrase, often modifying a noun to indicate that something is close to disappearing entirely. Ludwig AI confirms it is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

67%

Science

17%

Encyclopedias

16%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "verging on extinction" is a descriptive phrase indicating something is nearing complete disappearance, according to Ludwig AI. While grammatically correct and primarily used in news, scientific, and encyclopedic contexts, its impact is greatest when used judiciously. Alternatives such as "on the brink of extinction" or "nearing extinction" offer similar meanings with slightly different nuances. Using this phrase implies a genuine risk, making it essential to provide specific context about what is at risk. By considering these guidelines, writers can use "verging on extinction" effectively to convey urgency and concern.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

On the brink of extinction

Similar meaning, focusing on the immediacy and precariousness of the situation.

Nearing extinction

Directly indicates approaching the state of extinction.

Close to extinction

Emphasizes the proximity to extinction.

Almost extinct

Highlights the near-complete disappearance.

Facing extinction

Focuses on the confrontation with the threat of extinction.

Threatened with extinction

Highlights the external threat causing the approach to extinction.

In danger of extinction

Indicates the risk and peril associated with nearing extinction.

Approaching extinction

Focuses on the ongoing process of nearing extinction.

On the road to extinction

Implies a clear trajectory leading towards extinction.

Headed for extinction

Similar to 'on the road to extinction', indicating a direction towards extinction.

FAQs

How can I use "verging on extinction" in a sentence?

You can use "verging on extinction" to describe something that is close to disappearing. For example, "The population of that species is "verging on extinction" due to habitat loss."

What are some alternatives to "verging on extinction"?

Alternatives include "on the brink of extinction", "nearing extinction", or "almost extinct", depending on the nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "verging on extinction" in formal writing?

Yes, "verging on extinction" is suitable for formal writing, especially in scientific or journalistic contexts. However, ensure that the situation genuinely warrants such strong language. Using it sparingly increases its potential impact.

What factors typically cause a species to be described as "verging on extinction"?

Factors include habitat loss, climate change, over-hunting, pollution, and disease. The specific causes will vary depending on the species or entity in question.