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verge on

B2 formal inseparable transitive

To be very close to a particular state, quality, or condition — almost but not quite reaching it.

In plain English

Be almost at the point of being something — nearly but not quite.

What does "verge on" mean?

One main meaning — here's how to use it.

1 B2 formal

To be extremely close to a particular condition or quality without quite reaching it.

"His attention to detail verges on obsession sometimes."

The situation verges on the catastrophic.

— Common journalistic/political commentary formulation
inseparable

Literal vs figurative

Words literally mean

To be on the verge (edge) of something — right at the boundary.

Actually means

Be almost at the point of being something — nearly but not quite.

Usage tip

Commonly used in formal writing and speech to describe something approaching an extreme quality. Often carries a slightly negative or critical nuance. Frequently followed by abstract nouns: 'verge on the impossible', 'verge on madness', 'verge on genius'.

Words that pair with "verge on"

Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.

ridiculous madness genius impossible obsession abuse

How to conjugate "verge on"

The five tense forms you'll use most often.

Base
verge on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
verges on
he/she/it
Past simple
verged on
yesterday
Past participle
verged on
have + pp
-ing form
verging on
continuous

Hear "verge on" in the wild

Listen to native speakers using "verge on" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.

Other ways to say "verge on"

Swap in when you want variety — tap a linked one to explore it.

approach be on the brink of border on come close to edge toward

Keep exploring

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