← Back to collection
Region: North America | Usage example: We sourced designers north of the border

North of the border

Meaning

Located in Canada or across a national boundary

Usage

Used in North American contexts referencing Canada

Origin & History

Origins and dates here are approximate summaries. Many idioms have disputed or unknown origins, and not every date has been checked against a historical dictionary, so treat specific dates and stories as a starting point rather than a citation.

Geographic description relative to shared borders

Used in media to describe cross-border events

Related Idioms

South of the border

In Mexico or Latin America relative to the U.S.

Green thumb

A talent for gardening or making plants thrive.

Build bridges

Create connections across differences.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.