VERGES UPON Meaning and
Definition
-
"Verges upon" is a phrasal verb that refers to the act of coming close to or bordering on a particular state, action, or quality. It suggests a situation where something is on the brink or edge of reaching a certain condition or exhibiting a particular behavior, without actually fully embodying it. The phrase often indicates a proximity or nearness to a specific outcome or characteristic, but without crossing the threshold to fully become it.
In a broader sense, "verges upon" implies that there is a significant level of resemblance, similarity, or connection between two concepts or ideas, albeit with some degree of distinction or difference. It signifies that one thing or situation possesses attributes or traits that align closely with another thing or situation, but again, stopping short of being identical.
When used in discussions or evaluations, "verges upon" conveys a subtle notion of deliberation or contemplation, where the speaker acknowledges the striking resemblance or close proximity to a certain state, behavior, or quality, but also recognizes the distinction or boundary that still exists. It can be understood as reflecting a sense of cautiousness or hesitancy to completely identify or categorize something, opting instead to emphasize the closeness to a specific condition or characteristic without entirely reaching it.
Common Misspellings for VERGES UPON
- verges upon
- cerges upon
- berges upon
- gerges upon
- ferges upon
- vwrges upon
- vsrges upon
- vdrges upon
- vrrges upon
- v4rges upon
- v3rges upon
- veeges upon
- vedges upon
- vefges upon
- vetges upon
- ve5ges upon
- ve4ges upon
- verfes upon
- verves upon
- verbes upon
Etymology of VERGES UPON
The word "verges upon" does not have a specific etymology on its own, as it is a combination of two words: "verge" and "upon".
- "Verge" comes from the Latin word "virga", meaning rod, staff, or wand. Over time, it developed the sense of a boundary or border, often symbolized by a rod or staff. This sense eventually gave rise to the meaning of being on the edge or brink of something.
- "Upon", derived from Old English "uppan", indicates a spatial or temporal relationship, meaning something is in proximity or contact with another thing.
So, when you use the phrase "verges upon", it implies being very close to or almost reaching the edge of something, whether literally or figuratively.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
