B1noun1K

Edge

UK /["/edʒ/"]/US /["/edʒ/"]/

Definition

the outside limit of an object, a surface or an area; the part furthest from the centre

In simple words: The line or border where something ends; a sharp part.

Examples

  • She stood at the edge of the cliff, looking down at the water.
  • The company aims to stay on the cutting edge of technology.
  • He used a knife with a sharp edge to cut through the rope.
  • Their friendship gave them an edge in the competitive environment.
  • The cat approached the edge of the table carefully.
  • The edge of the forest was a perfect spot for camping.

Usage notes

The word 'edge' can refer to a physical border or a metaphorical advantage. It's commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, but avoid using it in overly casual situations when discussing serious topics.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of an 'edge' like the sharp point of a knife — it helps you remember it's the boundary.

Collocations

  • top
  • upper
  • bottom
  • reach
  • skirt
  • clutch
  • along the edge
  • around the edge
  • round the edge
  • right on the edge
  • razor-sharp
  • sharp
  • cutting
  • sharpen
  • competitive
  • slight
  • big
  • give somebody/​something
  • gain
  • have
  • edge over
  • razor-sharp
  • sharp
  • cutting
  • sharpen

Synonyms

  • border
  • margin
  • verge
  • brink
  • threshold

Antonyms

  • center
  • middle
  • interior

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'ledge', meaning a shelf or projecting edge.
  • Using 'edge' as a verb incorrectly.
  • Mistaking 'edge' for 'advantage' in all contexts.