Word
bordering
Phoneticsbor·der·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈbɔɹdɝɪŋ/
UK/bˈɔːdəɹɪŋ/
Definitions
01sharing a boundary
B2 · Upper Intermediate
adj. having a common edge or boundary with something else.
adj. sharing a common boundary or border; physically adjacent.
“The two bordering countries agreed to open a new trade route.”
“The dispute between the bordering nations intensified after natural resources were discovered directly beneath the shared frontier.”
Synonyms
02being next to
B2 · Upper Intermediate
v. to be right next to something or to share an edge with it.
v. to lie along the edge of; to be adjacent to a physical space.
“The garden was beautiful, with tall trees bordering the small pond.”
“A narrow gravel path bordering the estate provides a scenic route for local hikers during the summer months.”
03decorative edge
C2 · Proficiency Uncountable noun Technical
n. a pattern or decoration that forms an edge around something.
n. the act of creating a border or the material used to form a decorative boundary.
“The intricate bordering on the rug was hand-woven by local artists.”
“The architect specified a granite bordering for the courtyard to ensure the landscaping remained distinct from the pedestrian walkway.”
Usage
Often followed by 'on' when used predicatively; can stand alone before a noun.
Pitfall
bordering rude
bordering on rude
When used after a linking verb, it requires the preposition 'on' before the adjective or noun.
Real-World Examples
“Poland’s military command said it had mobilised aircraft and activated air defences aimed at protecting Polish airspace, particularly in areas bordering Ukraine.” “Poland’s military command also said it had mobilised aircraft and activated air defences aimed at protecting its airspace in areas bordering Ukraine.” “Eight people were killed in the western Belgorod region bordering Ukraine in the past 24 hours.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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