on the verge of

Meaning

This expression means to be very close to experiencing, doing, or reaching a particular state or event. It is often used in business to describe major transitions, breakthroughs, or crises that are imminent. The tone is neutral but conveys a sense of anticipation or urgency.

Examples

• The two companies are on the verge of signing a historic merger agreement.

  The two companies are on the verge of signing a historic merger agreement.

• After months of research, our R&D team is on the verge of a major breakthrough.

  After months of research, our R&D team is on the verge of a major breakthrough.

• We were on the verge of launching the campaign when the client changed their mind.

  We were on the verge of launching the campaign when the client changed their mind.

• The startup was on the verge of bankruptcy before securing the new funding round.

  The startup was on the verge of bankruptcy before securing the new funding round.

• Many employees feel they are on the verge of burnout due to the constant overtime.

  Many employees feel they are on the verge of burnout due to the constant overtime.

Common Mistakes

• ✗ We are on the verge to sign the contract.

  ✓ We are on the verge of signing the contract.

  The phrase 'on the verge of' must be followed by a gerund (-ing form) or a noun, not an infinitive verb.

• ✗ The project is in the verge of completion.

  ✓ The project is on the verge of completion.

  The correct preposition to use in this idiom is 'on', not 'in'.

Related Expressions

Practice

• The negotiation team is ___ signing the deal.

  💡 Very close to doing something.

  Show answer

  on the verge of

• She was ___ quitting her job before she got the promotion.

  💡 Very near to an action.

  Show answer

  on the verge of