borderline
1 synonym for borderline, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Adj — Not clearly on one side or the other; right at the edge of acceptable, safe, or normal.
How to use borderline
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
borderline case
borderline rude
a borderline decision
Etymology
From "border" + "line," originally describing a line marking a boundary.
Full origin of borderline →Frequently asked questions
What does “borderline” mean?
The word “borderline” means not clearly on one side or the other; right at the edge of acceptable, safe, or normal. In plain terms, right on the edge between two categories — not quite one thing, not quite the other.
How do you pronounce “borderline”?
“Borderline” is pronounced BOR-d-lyn (/ˈboɹ.dɚˌlaɪn/ in IPA).
How do you use “borderline” in a sentence?
Here is “borderline” used in a sentence: “His comment was borderline offensive.”
What part of speech is “borderline”?
“Borderline” is an adjective.
Is “borderline” a common word?
“Borderline” is an uncommon word in modern English.
