On edge

Meaning

The idiom "on edge" means to be extremely tense, anxious, or nervous. It can also indicate that someone is irritable or easily frustrated.

Usage

• John was on edge all day because he had a big presentation at work.
• The baby was on edge during the flight, making it difficult for his parents to relax.
• Sarah's mood changed suddenly, and she became very defensive and on edge.
• The car started shaking violently, making everyone inside feel on edge.
• The new employee seemed a bit on edge during their first few days at work.

Roots and History

The idiom "on edge" has been used in English since the 16th century. It originally meant to be on or near the edge of something, such as a cliff or a tree branch. Over time, it evolved to mean being tense or anxious. The idiom may have also been influenced by the idea of standing on the edge of one's feelings or emotions.

Synonyms in English

• Nervous
• Anxious
• Tense
• Irritable
• Frustrated

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "Sur le point de faire barrage" (Close to stopping)
• Spanish: "En el borde del nervio" (On the nerve)
• Italian: "Al centro dell'animo" (At the center of the heart)
• German: "Auf der Nervenfeder" (On the edge of nerves)
• Russian: "На краю настроения" (On the edge of mood)

Similar Idioms

• on pins and needles

• drop dead

• in hot water