Meaning & Definition of word "Borderline"

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.