brink - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
brink Word Meanings
- an extreme edge of land before a steep slope or cliff
- a point at which something, typically undesirable, is about to happen
- a boundary or limit.
brink Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
brink Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/brɪŋk/
US
/brɪŋk/
brink Word Etymology
Root decomposition: brink = (None). Historical origin: Middle English. Memory image: picture a person standing at the edge of a steep cliff, feeling the thrill of standing at the brink, like teetering on the edge of a major decision.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputReal Context
Brink is a noun that can mean the edge of land where the ground drops away, or more metaphorically, the point at which something undesirable is about to happen, or a boundary or limit. People say someone is 'on the brink' of making a decision, or that a country is 'on the brink' of war. The word is often used with phrases like 'to teeter on the brink' or 'to stand at the brink of disaster.' It is not usually a concrete structure; it emphasizes proximity to a threshold rather than distance. Common collocations include edge, verge, boundary, limit, brinkmanship (policy).
Usage Reminders
- - Use brink for a critical, near-imminent point rather than a physical edge
- - Commonly paired with 'on the brink of' or 'at the brink of' something bad
- - Reserve for abstract thresholds; 'edge' fits physical cliffs better
- - Remember 'brinkmanship' is about pushing a confrontation to force concessions
- - Do not use as a verb; 'to brink' is incorrect
Common Misconceptions
- Brink always refers to a cliff or edge; in fact it often refers to abstract thresholds
- Brink means imminent danger only; it can apply to opportunities or changes at times
- People say 'on a brink'; correct form is 'on the brink' or 'at the brink of'
- Brink can be used as a verb in casual speech; it cannot
- Brink is interchangeable with edge in all contexts
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: Brink emphasizes proximity to a threshold or danger, not distance. Learners often confuse it with edge, assuming it marks any border or with verge, which is milder. Focus on 'on the brink of' and 'brink of disaster' to convey urgency.
Learning Tips
- Practice with 'on the brink of' for imminent change.
- Avoid 'on a brink' and use 'at the brink of disaster' instead.
- Pair with nouns like disaster, collapse, decision.
- Remember brink contrasts with physical edges (edge).
- Use brinkmanship in political context only, not everyday language.
- Think of threshold, not distance.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'brink' used correctly?
A.He was on the brink of tears.
B.She sat in the middle of the brink of the bed.
C.The cat climbed to the brink of the tree.
D.The teacher explained the lesson on the brink of the board.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'brink'?
A.Boundary
B.Base
C.Center
D.Core
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'brink'?
A.Interior
B.Middle
C.Peak
D.Bottom
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life situation where someone might be on the brink of something?
A.Answer this question by thinking aloud.
B.Discussing a book with a friend.
C.Cooking dinner for your family.
D.Shopping at a mall.
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