Be on edge

usgb
phrase

Feeling nervous, worried or uneasy.

Since the police started investigating, everyone in the office has been on edge.
Visual representation of "be on edge" - Feeling nervous, worried or uneasy

Often appears as...

  • feel on edge
  • have been on edge

Usage tips

Disapproving

Colloquial

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "be on edge"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Emotional State

Used to express a negative feeling, usually not a positive excitement or anticipation.

Illustration for Emotional State
I've been on edge ever since I heard the storm warning.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Trigger Warning

Often follows after a specific event that causes worry or unease.

Illustration for Trigger Warning
She's been on edge since the argument with her best friend.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Temporary Feeling

Implies a temporary state, not a permanent trait of a person.

Illustration for Temporary Feeling
Mark's usually calm, but he's been on edge waiting for the test results.
Visual representation of the word "Be on edge"

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