verge
- 01 B2 Upper Intermediate
the point where you are very close to a new situation or state.
the limit or threshold beyond which a particular state or condition is likely to occur.
Simple“The company was on the verge of bankruptcy before the new investment arrived.”
In context“Scientists believe the team is on the verge of a significant breakthrough that could revolutionise renewable energy storage.”
UsageUsually follows the pattern 'on the verge of' followed by a noun or gerund.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
the narrow strip of grass or land at the side of a road.
the grassy or unpaved margin bordering a road or path.
Simple“He pulled the car onto the grass verge to check the map.”
In context“Wildflowers often thrive on the roadside verge where the soil remains undisturbed by intensive agricultural machinery.”
- 03 C2 Proficiency
a decorative rod or stick carried by an official in a ceremony.
a rod or staff carried as a symbol of office or authority, particularly in ecclesiastical contexts.
Simple“The official carried a silver verge during the cathedral procession.”
In context“The verger preceded the bishop, holding the ceremonial verge aloft to signal the start of the liturgy.”
- 04 C2 Proficiency
the edge of a roof that hangs over the end wall of a building.
the part of a roof that projects beyond the gable end of a building.
Simple“Water was dripping from the verge of the roof because the tiles were loose.”
In context“The architect specified a dry verge system to provide a weatherproof finish to the gable ends without the need for mortar.”
Synonymseavesoverhang
“On location, set dressing would be a burnt-out car on the grass verge, maybe an upturned shopping trolley.”
“Lomax was always on the verge of running out of money.”