liminal

[ˈlɪmɪnəl]

liminal Definition

• 1. relating to a transitional or initial stage of a process
• 2. occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a boundary or threshold

Using liminal: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "liminal" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The liminal phase between childhood and adulthood is often marked by confusion and uncertainty.

• Example

  The liminal space between the two buildings was transformed into a beautiful garden.

• Example

  The liminal nature of the character made it difficult to determine whether he was a hero or a villain.

liminal Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for liminal

• transitional
• intermediate
• threshold
• borderline
• in-between

Antonyms for liminal

• definite
• unambiguous
• clear-cut

Phrases with liminal

• liminal state

  a state of being in-between or transitional

  Example

  She felt like she was in a liminal state between her old life and her new one.

• liminal space

  a space that is neither here nor there, but in-between

  Example

  The artist created a liminal space in her installation, blurring the boundaries between the real and the imaginary.

• liminal being

  a being that is neither fully human nor fully animal, but in-between

  Example

  The werewolf is a classic example of a liminal being.

Origins of liminal

from Latin 'limen', meaning 'threshold'

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Summary: liminal in Brief

The term 'liminal' [ˈlɪmɪnəl] describes a transitional or initial stage of a process, or occupying a position at, or on both sides of, a boundary or threshold. It is often used to describe the state of being in-between or transitional, as in 'The liminal phase between childhood and adulthood is often marked by confusion and uncertainty.' 'Liminal' can also refer to spaces or beings that are neither here nor there, but in-between.