Antonyms for the phrase "verge on" include "retreat from," "avoid," "deviate from," "diverge from," "depart from," "turn away from," and "veer away from." These words signify a movement away from a particular point or boundary, rather than approaching or reaching it. They suggest that the speaker or subject is intentionally moving in a different direction or deliberately avoiding a particular outcome or consequence. Using antonyms for "verge on" can convey caution, hesitation, or a lack of desire to cross a particular line or boundary, rather than a sense of anticipation, excitement, or eagerness.