What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
borderline
Example
The patient's test results were borderline, indicating that further examination is needed. [borderline: adjective]
Example
She has a borderline personality disorder, which means she displays traits of both neurotic and psychotic disorders. [borderline: noun]
marginal
Example
He made only a marginal improvement in his grades this semester. [marginal: adjective]
Example
The homeless population often lives in marginal areas of the city. [marginal: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Marginal is more commonly used than borderline in everyday language. Marginal is versatile and can be used in various contexts to describe something of minor importance or significance. On the other hand, borderline is less common and is typically used in specific contexts related to uncertainty or lack of clarity.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between borderline and marginal?
Both borderline and marginal can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, borderline may be more commonly used in technical or medical contexts, while marginal is more commonly used in general discussions or everyday language.
