English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Live on the edge
Meaning
The idiom "live on the edge" means living life to the fullest, taking risks, and embracing danger or uncertainty. It suggests that a person is not afraid of failure or harm and is willing to take chances to achieve their goals.
Usage
- He's always lived his life on the edge, starting businesses at the age of 25 and never backing down from a challenge.
- The thrill-seeker lives on the edge, always looking for new ways to push himself to the limits.
- They've been together since high school, but their relationship has always been on the edge, with frequent arguments and breakups.
- As an extreme sports enthusiast, he loves to live on the edge, taking on dangerous stunts and challenges.
- The new CEO's leadership style is all about risk-taking and living life on the edge, but some employees are hesitant to follow her lead.
Roots and History
The idiom "live on the edge" dates back to at least the 19th century and has been used in various contexts throughout history. In literature, it has been used to describe characters who take risks or embrace danger, such as the protagonist of Jack London's novel "White Fang." In modern usage, the idiom is often associated with extreme sports enthusiasts and individuals who love to push themselves to their limits.
Synonyms in English
- Go all out
- Take a chance
- Get out there and do it
- Push yourself to the limit
- Give it your all
Synonyms in other languages
- In French, "vivre au bout du monde" means living on the edge or at the risk of danger.
- In German, "leben auf dem rand" means living on the edge or taking risks.
- In Spanish, "viviendo al borde" means living life to the fullest or pushing oneself to the limit.
- In Italian, "livinge sul confine" means living life on the edge or taking risks.
- In Russian, "жить на краю" means living life to the fullest or embracing danger.