What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
brink
Example
The hiker stood on the brink of the cliff, admiring the breathtaking view. [brink: noun]
Example
The country was on the brink of economic collapse before implementing necessary reforms. [brink: preposition]
threshold
Example
Please wipe your feet before crossing the threshold. [threshold: noun]
Example
The company's profits crossed the threshold required for expansion. [threshold: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Threshold is more commonly used than brink in everyday language. Threshold is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while brink is less common and tends to be used in more specific situations.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between brink and threshold?
Both brink and threshold can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, brink may have a slightly more formal tone when used in metaphorical or critical situations.