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border on

VERB
come close to; approximate
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abut adjoin come near verge on
WEAK
approach be like be similar to compare connect contact echo impinge join lie near lie next to march match near neighbor parallel resemble touch
Antonyms
WEAK
not touch

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Product designers are coming up with novel ways to rouse deep sleepers that border on diabolical, including clocks that deliver 300-volt electric shocks and donate snoozers’ money to charity.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 6, 2026

Afghanistan's Taliban government said it had launched an offensive on Pakistani military bases near the border on Thursday night.

From BBC • Feb. 27, 2026

Cambodia and Thailand traded accusations of fresh clashes along their border on Wednesday, after Bangkok said it was pausing the implementation of a US-backed peace deal.

From Barron's • Nov. 12, 2025

Those familiar with that Mike Leigh film are aware that Poppy’s level of effervescence can border on the uncomfortable.

From The Wall Street Journal • Sep. 30, 2025

Central Americans are sent back to the Guatemalan border on el bus de lagrimas, the bus of tears.

From "Enrique's Journey" by Sonia Nazario

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