brink

[briŋk]

brink Definition

  • 1the edge or margin of a steep place
  • 2a point at which something is about to happen; the verge

Using brink: Examples

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

  • Example

    He stood on the brink of the cliff, looking down at the ocean below.

  • Example

    The country was on the brink of war.

  • Example

    The company was on the brink of bankruptcy before the new CEO took over.

brink Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for brink

Phrases with brink

  • at the point of a crucial or dangerous event or situation

    Example

    The team was on the brink of elimination from the tournament.

  • the point at which a species or group of organisms is on the verge of becoming extinct

    Example

    The conservationists are working hard to save the endangered species from the brink of extinction.

  • the point at which a system or organization is on the verge of collapsing

    Example

    The company was on the brink of collapse due to mismanagement and financial problems.

Origins of brink

from Middle English 'brinke', meaning 'edge'

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Summary: brink in Brief

The term 'brink' [briŋk] refers to the edge or margin of a steep place, or a point at which something is about to happen. It can be used in contexts ranging from physical locations like cliffs to abstract situations like war or bankruptcy. Phrases like 'on the brink' denote a crucial or dangerous event, while 'brink of extinction' and 'brink of collapse' refer to the verge of extinction or collapse, respectively.

How do native speakers use this expression?