English Reference
noun · verb

border

n. · v.
US /ˈbɔɹdɝ/ UK /bˈɔːdɐ/ bor·der

  1. 01 B1 Intermediate

    n.the official line that separates two countries or regions.

    n.the line or frontier area separating political or geographical regions.

    Simple

    We had to show our passports when we crossed the border into Canada.

    In context

    The treaty established a new international border along the mountain range, effectively ending decades of territorial disputes between the two nations.

  2. 02 B1 Intermediate

    n.the edge or boundary of an object or a piece of land.

    n.the outer edge or perimeter of a physical object or defined area.

    Simple

    The artist painted a thin gold border around the edge of the frame.

    In context

    The document was formatted with a wide border to allow space for the editor to write handwritten notes in the margins.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate

    n.a long, narrow area in a garden where plants or flowers are grown.

    n.a strip of ground, typically at the edge of a lawn or path, in which ornamental plants are grown.

    Simple

    She planted colorful tulips in the flower border along the garden path.

    In context

    The landscape architect designed a herbaceous border that would provide a succession of blooms from early spring through late autumn.

  4. 04 B1 Intermediate

    v.to be right next to another country or area.

    v.to lie adjacent to or share a boundary with another geographical entity.

    Simple

    France borders several countries, including Spain, Italy, and Germany.

    In context

    The national park borders a densely populated urban area, creating unique challenges for wildlife management and conservation efforts.

    Usage

    The verb is transitive when describing geographical location.

    adjoinabut
  5. 05 B2 Upper Intermediate

    v.to be very close to a certain quality or feeling, usually a negative one.

    v.to approach or come near to a specified state or quality; to verge on.

    Simple

    His rude behavior borders on being completely unacceptable.

    In context

    The critic argued that the film's extreme violence bordered on the gratuitous, overshadowing its otherwise compelling narrative.

    Usage

    Usually takes the preposition 'on' or 'upon'.

Usage border checks · border controls · border crossing

This entry
Level B1 · Intermediate
Frequency Common
Updated