1.
brink, critical moment, tipping point
A crucial turning point where the outcome could go either way. Often implies urgency and high stakes.
会社は倒産の瀬戸際にある。
The company is on the brink of bankruptcy.
合格か不合格かの瀬戸際だった。
It was right on the borderline between passing and failing.
交渉は決裂の瀬戸際に立たされていたが、最後の提案で合意に至った。
The negotiations were on the verge of collapse, but a final proposal led to an agreement.
ETYMOLOGY:
瀬戸 refers to a narrow strait where currents are strong and unpredictable, and 際 means edge or boundary. The word evokes being at the edge of a dangerous strait — a point of no return.
USAGE:
Often used in the pattern 〜の瀬戸際 (on the brink of ~). Carries a dramatic tone and is common in news reporting and formal speech. Similar to English "on the brink" or "at a crossroads."
COMMON COLLOCATIONS:
- 倒産の瀬戸際: on the brink of bankruptcy
- 生きるか死ぬかの瀬戸際: a life-or-death moment
- 瀬戸際に立たされる: to be pushed to the brink
- 瀬戸際外交: brinkmanship diplomacy