we are on the cusp of

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are on the cusp of" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is about to happen or that a significant change is imminent. Example: "As technology continues to advance rapidly, we are on the cusp of a new era in artificial intelligence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

We are on the cusp of true energy democracy.

The Guardian

It suggests that we are on the cusp of others".

The Guardian - Business

We are on the cusp of a new economy driven by the digital revolution.

The Guardian - Opinion

The World Economic Forum predicts that we are on the cusp of a fourth industrial revolution.

The Guardian

"We are on the cusp of this becoming a mainstream activity," Mr. Sullivan said.

The New York Times - Tech

"We are on the cusp of a revolution here," Suge says quietly.

The Guardian

Only time will tell whether we are on the cusp of real social and workplace change.

The Guardian

However, we are on the cusp of a period of mass extinction.

The Guardian

"We think we are on the cusp of that kind of change in the 401(k) industry".

The New York Times

When you look into this sector, you see we are on the cusp of another transportation revolution.

The New York Times

"We are on the cusp of a major policy reformulation led by the baby boomers," Ms. Moen argued, hopefully.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "we are on the cusp of", clearly define what specific event or advancement you are referring to. Providing context helps the audience understand the significance and potential impact of the impending change.

Common error

Avoid using "we are on the cusp of" for events that are far off or speculative. This phrase implies near certainty, so ensure the change is genuinely on the horizon to maintain credibility.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are on the cusp of" functions as a prepositional phrase that introduces a noun, noun phrase, or gerund expressing an impending change, event, or state. It highlights that the subject is at a critical juncture, poised for a significant transition as shown in Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Formal & Business

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

2%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "we are on the cusp of" is a prepositional phrase used to express that something significant is about to happen. Ludwig AI confirms that the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. It conveys a sense of anticipation and excitement about imminent changes, and is considered neutral to professional in register. While highly versatile, it's important to ensure that the implied imminence aligns with the actual likelihood and timeframe of the event to maintain credibility. Alternatives like "we are on the verge of" or "we are nearing" can be used depending on the desired nuance.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are on the verge of

Emphasizes being very close to a significant event or development.

we are on the brink of

Highlights the potential for a sudden or dramatic change.

we stand on the threshold of

A more formal way to suggest entering a new phase or era.

we are at the dawn of

Implies the beginning of something positive and promising.

a turning point is upon us

Emphasizes a moment of significant change or decision.

we are nearing

Indicates that something is approaching but may still be some distance away.

we are approaching

Similar to "nearing", but with a sense of deliberate movement towards something.

we are about to experience

Directly states that something will happen soon.

we are witnessing the start of

Focuses on the act of observing something as it begins.

the future is within our grasp

Expresses optimism and possibility, implying control over upcoming events.

FAQs

What does it mean to say "we are on the cusp of" something?

Saying "we are on the cusp of" something means that we are at the point just before a significant change or event occurs. It suggests that something new or important is about to happen.

How can I use "we are on the cusp of" in a sentence?

You can use "we are on the cusp of" to describe upcoming changes or developments. For example, "We are on the cusp of a technological revolution" indicates that a major shift in technology is about to occur.

What are some alternatives to "we are on the cusp of"?

Some alternatives to "we are on the cusp of" include phrases like "we are on the verge of", "we are on the brink of", or "we are nearing", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "we are on the cusp of" formal or informal?

"We are on the cusp of" is generally considered a neutral to slightly formal phrase. It is suitable for use in both professional and academic contexts, as well as in news and media.