What is edge? Pronunciation and usage in English

edge means . Learn how to pronounce and use edge through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of edge

edgenoun

/ɛdʒ/
Definition & pronunciation of edge

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "edge" in English. There are two common pronunciations, and which one you use depends on where you are and what dialect you're aiming for:

1. The Most Common American Pronunciation:

  • IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet): /ɛdʒ/
  • How to say it: It’s pronounced like "edj" – very short and quick, almost blending the "e" and "j" sounds together. Think of it like you're saying "edj" rapidly.
  • Sound breakdown:
    • "e": A very short, almost silent "e" sound – like the "e" in "bed."
    • "j": The standard "j" sound, as in "jump."

2. The British Pronunciation:

  • IPA: /ɛd͡ʒ/ (The little squiggle after the "j" indicates a slight catch in the sound.)
  • How to say it: This is a more distinct "j" sound. It's pronounced like the "j" in "judge." It’s slightly more drawn out than the American pronunciation.
  • Sound breakdown:
    • "e": Similar to the American pronunciation – a short "e" sound.
    • "j": A clear, distinct "j" sound as in “judge.”

Here’s a quick comparison table:

Feature American Pronunciation British Pronunciation
IPA /ɛdʒ/ /ɛd͡ʒ/
"j" sound Blended/quick Distinct/longer
Emphasis Relatively neutral Slightly more on the "j"

Resources for Hearing the Pronunciation:

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • Where are you located (or where do you want to sound)? (e.g., United States, United Kingdom, Australia, etc.)

Usage and examples with the word edge in English

Let's break down how to use the word "edge" in English. It's a surprisingly versatile word with many different meanings! Here's a breakdown categorized for clarity:

1. Physical Edge (Sharpness & Boundaries)

  • Definition: The sharp outer part of something.
  • Examples:
    • "The knife has a very sharp edge." (Referring to the blade)
    • "She carefully smoothed the edge of the table."
    • "The stone had a jagged edge."
    • "He trimmed the edge of the cardboard."

2. Edge (Border/Rim)

  • Definition: The outer boundary or rim of something.
  • Examples:
    • "The edge of the cliff was terrifying."
    • "She sat on the edge of the sofa." (Meaning near the end)
    • “The edge of the forest was dark and mysterious.”
    • "He ran along the edge of the lake."

3. Edge (Advantage/Competitive Advantage)

  • Definition: A situation or aspect that gives someone an advantage. It’s about being ahead of the competition.
  • Examples:
    • "The company's innovative technology gave them a significant edge over their rivals."
    • "He used his quick wit to gain an edge in the debate."
    • “Their superior marketing campaign gave them an edge in the market.”
    • "Staying up-to-date with the latest trends gives you an edge in your field."

4. Edge (To Move Quickly - Often with a Lean)

  • Definition: To move quickly and suddenly, often with a slight lean.
  • Examples:
    • "The car edged its way through the narrow street." (Meaning it maneuvered carefully)
    • "He edged closer to her, trying to get her attention." (Moving subtly toward someone)
    • "The runner edged out his competitor in the final sprint." (Gained a slight lead)

5. Edge (To Push/Force Something)

  • Definition: To push something to its limit or boundary.
  • Examples:
    • "The harsh criticism edged him to the brink of giving up." (Pushed him to the limit)
    • "The company is edging towards bankruptcy.” (getting closer to failure)

6. Edge (A Small Difference/Margin)

  • Definition: A small amount or degree.
  • Examples:
    • “There’s only an edge of a doubt that he’ll come.” (A small possibility)
    • “She mentioned an edge of hesitation in his voice.” (A slight uncertainty)

Phrases Using "Edge":

  • On the edge: (1) Close to a dangerous situation; (2) Sitting on the rim of something. "He was on the edge of his seat during the suspenseful movie." "She sat on the edge of the table."
  • Give someone an edge: To help someone have an advantage. "I’ll help you study, so you’ll have an edge in the test."
  • Come to a point/edge: To reach a conclusion or a limit. “The argument came to a point and ended.”

Tips for Using "Edge" Correctly:

  • Context is key: The meaning of "edge" changes depending on the sentence.
  • Consider synonyms: If you're unsure, synonyms like "boundary," "rim," "advantage," or "lead" might be clearer.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of context are you thinking about when you want to use "edge"? (e.g., business, sports, describing a physical object, etc.)
  • Can you give me an example sentence you're struggling with?

Synonyms for the word edge

Practice with vocabulary edge

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. To stay competitive in the market, companies must constantly innovate to gain a technological ______ over their rivals.
  2. The hikers carefully approached the ______ of the precipice, gazing at the valley below.
  3. After months of intense negotiations, the two parties found themselves at a complete ______ regarding the terms of the merger.
  4. The antique sword had a beautifully crafted hilt and a remarkably sharp ______.

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. To achieve market dominance, a company often needs to secure a competitive ______ over its competitors. A) edge B) advantage C) border D) limit

  2. The old lighthouse stood precariously on the ______ of the cliff, overlooking the stormy sea. A) edge B) rim C) center D) peak

  3. Exploratory research often involves pushing the boundaries of current knowledge to the absolute ______. A) edge B) limit C) core D) surface

  4. Despite extensive preparation, the team found themselves on the ______ of despair as the project deadline loomed. A) verge B) brink C) side D) margin

  5. After hours of intense discussion, the committee reached a complete ______ on how to proceed with the controversial proposal. A) deadlock B) impasse C) resolution D) conclusion

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His latest research provided the company with a significant advantage over its rivals.
  2. The remote cabin was situated right at the very end of the vast, dense forest.
  3. The construction phase of the new office building was almost complete, just about to finish.

Answer:

Exercise 1: Fill in the blanks

  1. edge
  2. edge
  3. impasse
  4. blade

Exercise 2: Choose the correct answer

  1. A) edge, B) advantage
  2. A) edge, B) rim
  3. A) edge, B) limit
  4. A) verge, B) brink
  5. A) deadlock, B) impasse

Exercise 3: Rewrite the sentences

  1. His latest research gave the company a significant edge over its rivals.
  2. The remote cabin was situated right at the edge of the vast, dense forest.
  3. The construction phase of the new office building was on the verge of completion.

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