on edge
She's been on edge all week waiting for the exam results.
She has been feeling nervous and anxious throughout the week due to waiting for her exam results.
Feeling tense, nervous, or anxious, often due to stress or anticipation.
After the argument with his boss, Mark was on edge for days.
Mark felt tense and anxious for several days following the argument with his boss.
The team was on edge before the big presentation.
The team felt nervous and stressed before delivering their important presentation.
Commonly used to describe a state of heightened anxiety or irritability.
Collocations
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Avoid literal interpretation
Remember that 'on edge' does not refer to a physical edge but to a state of mental tension or anxiety.
Gold Rule
Context matters
Use 'on edge' to describe someone feeling nervous or anxious due to stress or anticipation, not for physical situations.
Word Origin
The phrase 'on edge' originates from the literal sense of being physically close to an edge or border, implying instability or precariousness. By the late 19th century, it evolved figuratively to describe a state of mental unease or tension.
Usage Notes
Used to describe temporary states of anxiety, often related to anticipation of an event or stress. More casual than 'anxious' or 'nervous,' and commonly used in everyday conversation.