Word: Frontier

Pronunciation

/ˈfrʌntɪər/

Definitions

Noun (n)

1. Geographical Boundary: The boundary between two countries or territories, especially where it is not clearly defined or is under dispute. Example: “The American West was once the frontier between civilization and unexplored wilderness.”
2. Boundary of Knowledge: A field or area of research or activity that has not yet been fully explored or developed; the cutting edge. Example: “Space exploration represents the new frontier in scientific discovery.”
3. Front Line: The forefront of a particular activity or movement, often implying progress or development. Example: “The internet has become the new frontier for business innovation.”

Verb (v)

(informal) To advance into or develop a new area or field. Example: “The company is frontiers in the realm of artificial intelligence technology.”

Phrases

• Pushing the frontier: Advancing or expanding into new areas, either geographically, technologically, or intellectually.
• Wild frontier: Referring to a place or time characterized by lawlessness and untamed nature.
• Frontier mentality: An attitude associated with living on or being at the forefront of a new or undeveloped area, often characterized by self-reliance, independence, and pioneering spirit.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The pioneers crossed the vast and dangerous frontiers to settle in the new land.”
• Verb (informal): “Through his innovative work, he’s frontiers the use of virtual reality in education.”

Synonyms

• Border
• Edge
• Margin
• Outskirts
• Horizon (in the sense of a limit of knowledge or experience)
• Threshold (of a new era or territory)

Note: As a verb, ‘frontier’ can be used metaphorically but is less common than its noun form. Its usage may vary regionally and contextually.