What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
verge
Example
The car swerved off the verge and into the ditch. [verge: noun]
Example
I was on the verge of tears after hearing the news. [verge: preposition]
Example
The company is on the verge of bankruptcy if they don't make some changes soon. [verge: noun]
edge
Example
Be careful not to fall off the edge of the cliff. [edge: noun]
Example
He used a knife to sharpen the edge of the blade. [edge: noun]
Example
The new technology puts them at the cutting edge of the industry. [edge: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Edge is more commonly used than verge in everyday language, especially in American English. Edge is versatile and covers a wide range of contexts, while verge is less common and has more specific uses.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between verge and edge?
Both verge and edge are relatively formal words, but edge may be slightly more informal due to its versatility and common usage in everyday language.
