What does "borders" mean?

1. (national boundaries) the official lines that separate two countries or regions. 2. (decorative edges) the outer edges of something, often used for decoration. 3. (to be next to) to be right next to another place or thing.

How do you use "borders"?

often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to international travel. takes a direct object without a preposition.

borders

n. · v.

US //ˈbɔɹdɝz// UK //bˈɔːdəz// bor·ders

1 national boundaries (n.)
A2 Elementary

the official lines that separate two countries or regions.

the geopolitical boundaries separating different nations, states, or administrative regions.

Example

The travelers had to show their passports when they crossed the borders between the two countries.

Example

Strict regulations were implemented at the national borders to monitor the flow of goods and ensure compliance with international trade agreements.

Usage

often used with the definite article 'the' when referring to international travel.
- boundaries
- frontiers
- perimeters
2 decorative edges (n.)
B1 Intermediate

the outer edges of something, often used for decoration.

the decorative or functional margins surrounding an object, such as a garden bed or a printed page.

Example

She planted colorful flowers along the borders of her garden to make it look beautiful.

Example

The manuscript featured intricate gold-leaf borders that framed the text, reflecting the high status of its original owner.
- margins
- edges
- frames
- center
- middle

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3 to be next to (v.)
B1 Intermediate

to be right next to another place or thing.

to share a common boundary with another geographical area or object.

Example

France borders several other European countries, including Spain and Germany.

Example

The nature reserve borders a densely populated urban area, creating a unique challenge for local wildlife conservation efforts.

Usage

takes a direct object without a preposition.
- adjoin
- abut
- touch