Edges: meaning, definitions and examples

Use 'edges' when referring to the outer parts or boundaries of an object, usually something physical or graphical.

• Be careful, the edges of this paper are sharp.
• The edges of the table were smooth and rounded.

Use 'connections' when talking about relationships or associations between people, ideas, or objects, often implying a network or relational aspect.

• She has strong connections in the industry.
• The connections between these two concepts are clear.

Use 'links' to describe relationships or connections specifically in digital, informational, or chain contexts. It often implies something that connects different parts or sections.

• Click on the link to visit the website.
• There are several links between these two events.

Use 'lines' when describing a long, narrow mark or band, often straight. It's used in both physical and abstract contexts, such as drawing or writing.

• Draw two parallel lines on the paper.
• He was standing in a long line at the store.

This is a duplicate; see the first entry.

Use 'borders' when talking about the dividing lines between geographical areas, like countries or regions, or sometimes for describing boundaries of a physical space.

• The border between France and Spain is marked by the Pyrenees mountains
• Decorative borders can enhance the appearance of a page

Use 'margins' when referring to the blank spaces surrounding the text on a page, or more abstractly, to represent a small difference or buffer.

• Remember to set one-inch margins when typing your report
• The company's profit margins have decreased this quarter

Use 'perimeters' when discussing the continuous lines forming the boundaries of a closed geometric figure or area.

• The dog ran around the perimeter of the yard
• The police secured the perimeter of the crime scene

Use this when discussing the slowly moving boundaries of something, physically or metaphorically.

• The sunlight edges closer until it fills the entire room
• She edges toward him, uncertain and shy

This is a general term for any slow movement, whether it’s physical movement or a metaphorical process. Can imply deliberate slowness.

• The turtle moved slowly across the road
• He decided to move slowly through the decision-making process to avoid any mistakes

This phrase is suitable for situations where there is a need to be careful and thoughtful before taking an action, often due to potential danger or sensitivity.

• You should approach cautiously when dealing with wild animals
• He approached his boss cautiously with his new idea, worried about the reaction

Ideal for discussing a slow but steady improvement or advancement over time. Often used in personal development, career growth, or skill acquisition.

• The project will gradually progress as we gather more data
• She gradually progressed in her language skills over the semester