Basic Details
Word: Brink
Part of Speech: Noun
Meaning: The edge or border of something, often used to refer to a dangerous or critical point.
Synonyms: Edge, verge, threshold
Antonyms: Centre, middle
Idioms and Phrases
- On the brink: At the point just before something happens, often something significant or dangerous. Example: "The team was on the brink of victory after their last-minute goal."
- Brink of disaster: Approaching a very serious or dangerous situation. Example: "The company was on the brink of disaster due to poor management."
Usage Examples
Example 1: The hiker stood at the brink of the cliff, admiring the breathtaking view of the valley below.
Example 2: The scientists warned that the planet is on the brink of environmental collapse if we do not take action.
Example 3: After years of hard work, she felt she was on the brink of achieving her dreams.
Fun Fact
The word "brink" comes from the Old English word "brynca," which means "edge" or "slope." It has been used in the English language for centuries to describe the critical edges of various situations.
Famous Quote
"We are on the brink of something extraordinary." Unknown
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "brink" mean?
a) The centre of a room
b) The edge or border of something
c) A type of animal
d) A kind of food
Answer: b) The edge or border of something
2. Which of these is a synonym of "brink"?
a) Water
b) Threshold
c) Tree
d) Rock
Answer: b) Threshold
3. What is the opposite of "brink"?
a) Edge
b) Centre
c) Verge
d) Slope
Answer: b) Centre
4. Which sentence uses "brink" correctly?
a) She read a book on the brink.
b) He was standing on the brink of the water.
c) The dog chased the brink down the street.
d) The brink cooked delicious food.
Answer: b) He was standing on the brink of the water.
5. Which idiom means being very close to a significant change or event?
a) On the brink
b) At the bottom
c) Off the wall
d) Between a rock and a hard place
Answer: a) On the brink
