Translation guide
The English word 'verge' has two main uses: a physical edge or border, and the phrase 'on the verge of' meaning about to do something or about to happen. This guide covers both.
Expressing that someone is about to do something or something is about to happen, often with a sense of imminence or near occurrence.
Attach to the verb stem (masu-stem) to mean 'almost did something' or 'was about to do something'. Often used for unintended or involuntary actions.
Attach to verb stem to indicate an action was started but not completed, or was about to happen. Often implies interruption.
Referring to the edge of a road, a physical boundary, or a margin.
General word for edge, brim, or rim of an object or area. Can be used for the verge of a road or a cliff.
〜そうになる is used for unintentional or involuntary near-occurrences (almost fell, almost cried). 〜かける implies an action started but was interrupted or left unfinished. 〜するところだ is for intentional actions just about to be performed. Choose based on volition and completion.
Used with dictionary form of verb to mean 'just about to do something'. More neutral and intentional than 〜そうになる.
出かけるところだ。
I'm on the verge of going out.
電話しようとしたところだ。
I was just on the verge of calling you.
Literally 'seems like it will happen at any moment'. Emphasizes the imminence of an action or event.
今にも雨が降りそうだ。
It's on the verge of raining.
道路の縁に立っていた。
I was standing on the verge of the road.
崖の縁に近づくな。
Don't go near the verge of the cliff.