THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
On edge
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
Nervous, tense and unable to relax.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- I felt on edge while waiting for the interview to begin.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
I felt ________ while waiting for the interview to begin.
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On edge — Nervous, tense and unable to relax.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “On edge” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
Nervous, tense and unable to relax.
Compare: I felt on edge while waiting for the interview to begin.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use this everyday expression about uneasiness before an event or during uncertainty. It can also suggest that someone is easily irritated because they feel tense.
More examples in context
- The unexplained noise left everyone on edge.
- Please excuse my short replies; I’ve been on edge all morning.
Usage note
Say “on edge”, without “the”. Use it after “be”, “feel” or “seem”. It describes tension rather than simply being interested or pleasantly excited.
A short conversation
A: You seem on edge today. Is something worrying you?
B: I’m waiting for an important call.
A: Would a short walk help while you wait?
One more practice question
Which person feels on edge?
A. Someone who is tense and cannot relax while waiting for news.
B. Someone who is completely calm and comfortable.
Check your answer
A. Nervous tension and difficulty relaxing fit the expression.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.