die Schwelle
Translation
threshold, doorstep, railroad tie, sill
Examples
Er stand auf der Schwelle des Hauses.
He stood on the threshold of the house.
Wir stehen an der Schwelle zu einer neuen Ära.
We are on the threshold of a new era.
Die Hemmschwelle für Gewalt sinkt.
The inhibition threshold for violence is decreasing.
Grammar Patterns
to stand ((on/at the threshold)) She stood on the threshold and hesitated.
((on the threshold)) ((of sth.)) The company is on the threshold of bankruptcy.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Eingang (entrance), Grenze (border), Anfang (beginning)
Etymology
From Old High German 'swelli', related to 'schwellen' (to swell), originally meaning a raised piece of wood.
Memory Tips
Imagine you 'swell' with excitement as you cross the 'Schwelle' (threshold) into a new place.