we are on the verge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "we are on the verge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate that something is about to happen or is very close to occurring. Example: "After months of hard work, we are on the verge of launching our new product."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

The word tragedy is thrown around lightly, but we are on the verge of one, here.

Independent

The word tragedy is thrown around lightly, but we are on the verge of one.

Independent

"But we are on the verge of doing it.

The New York Times - Sports

"We are on the verge of a very serious crisis.

The New York Times

We are on the verge of financial collapse.

The New York Times

We are on the verge of a public-health disaster.

The Guardian

There are signs that we are on the verge of change.

The New York Times

"We are on the verge of the perpetual flight," Dr. Piccard said.

The New York Times

"What we are on the verge of talking about seems infinitely alluring," Benjamin wrote resignedly.

The New Yorker

"We are on the verge of national need," Mr. Orloff said.

The New York Times

"We are on the verge of making great history for the American people," she said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the emotional tone you wish to convey. The phrase can imply excitement, danger, or a pivotal moment, so make sure it aligns with your intended message.

Common error

Avoid using "we are on the verge" in casual conversations or informal writing. This phrase is more suitable for formal reports, news articles, or academic papers where a serious tone is required.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "we are on the verge" functions as a descriptive and predictive statement, indicating that a particular event or condition is highly likely to occur in the near future. It is frequently employed to highlight impending changes, developments, or critical moments as shown by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "we are on the verge" is a versatile expression used to indicate that something is about to happen imminently. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news, business, and scientific contexts. When using this phrase, it's important to consider its formal tone and the sense of urgency or anticipation it conveys. Alternatives like "we are about to" or "we are on the brink of" can be used depending on the specific nuance you want to express. Be mindful of overusing it in informal settings where a more casual expression might be appropriate. With a high expert rating and frequent appearance in authoritative sources, mastering the use of "we are on the verge" can enhance the impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

we are about to

This alternative uses a more direct and simple construction to indicate immediate future action.

we are on the brink of

This phrase emphasizes the potential danger or excitement of the impending situation.

we stand on the threshold of

This option is more formal and literary, suggesting a significant transition.

we are nearing

This alternative suggests the process is happening more gradually.

we are approaching

Similar to 'nearing', but it may emphasize the act of moving closer to a specific point.

the time is ripe for

Expresses opportunity and indicates that the moment is right for something to happen.

we are on the cusp of

Indicates that the moment is around the corner.

we anticipate

Uses a more subdued and certain tone compared to the other alternatives.

we foresee

Implies prediction or expectation based on available evidence.

the future holds

Expresses the idea that the future is coming.

FAQs

What does "we are on the verge" mean?

The phrase "we are on the verge" means that something is about to happen or is very close to occurring. It suggests that an event or change is imminent.

What can I say instead of "we are on the verge"?

You can use alternatives like "we are about to", "we are on the brink of", or "we stand on the threshold of" depending on the context.

Is it appropriate to use "we are on the verge" in formal writing?

Yes, "we are on the verge" is appropriate for formal writing. It adds a tone of importance and anticipation, suitable for reports, articles, and academic papers.

How does "we are on the verge" differ from "we are close to"?

"We are close to" indicates proximity, while "we are on the verge" suggests that the final step or event is about to happen imminently. "We are on the verge" implies a more critical or significant transition is at hand.