Meaning & Definition of word "Borderline"
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Borderline
/ˈbɔːrdərlaɪn/
noun:
- 1. a line or boundary that marks a limit
- Example: The river serves as the borderline between the two countries.
- 2. something that lacks a clear distinction or is ambiguous
- Example: There is often a borderline between genius and madness in the arts.
adjective:
- 1. situated on or at the edge or boundary of something
- Example: His performance was borderline acceptable, just meeting the requirements.
- 2. having characteristics of two different categories or conditions
- Example: The patient was diagnosed with borderline personality disorder, indicating symptoms that straddled several psychological conditions.
Etymology
Derived from the combination of 'border' and 'line'.
Common Phrases and Expressions
borderline case:
A situation that is on the edge of being classified in one way or another.
borderline personality disorder:
A mental health disorder characterized by unstable moods, behavior, and relationships.
borderline acceptable:
Just barely meeting the criteria or standards.
Related Words
border:
A boundary line separating two places.
line:
A long, narrow mark or band.
marginal:
At the lower limit of qualification.
Slang Meanings of borderline
Meaning: Close to being out of control or excessive.
Example Sentence: Her spending habits are borderline insane.
Meaning: Just about acceptable but not quite.
Example Sentence: That outfit is borderline inappropriate for the occasion.