on edge
Meaning
Nervous, tense, or easily upset; feeling anxious and ready to react.
Origin
From the idea of being on a physical edge or brink—precariously balanced and liable to tip or fall—extended metaphorically to an emotionally precarious, jumpy state.
Notes
Common in everyday speech for anxious, tense, or irritable moods. Often implies someone may overreact or snap due to stress.
Examples
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Everyone was on edge while we waited for the jury’s decision.
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I’ve been on edge all day because my boss wants to talk to me this afternoon.
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The dog is on edge around strangers, so please don’t try to pet him.
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With the deadline so close, the whole team is on edge and snapping at each other.
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After the break-in, she felt on edge whenever she heard a noise at night.
Grammar & Usage Notes
Typically used after forms of “be”: be/feel/seem on edge. Can be modified (a bit/really/on edge lately). Usually not pluralized or changed; fixed phrase.
Synonyms
- tense
- anxious
- nervous
- jittery
- uptight
Antonyms
- calm
- relaxed
- at ease
- unruffled