being on edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "being on edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of nervousness or anxiety, often in situations that are stressful or uncertain. Example: "After hearing the news, I found myself being on edge for the rest of the day."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Kiriakou recalled being "on edge from day one".

The New Yorker

He needed help; he talks about being "on edge", "vulnerable", "victim of something that terrified me".

The Guardian - Sport

And, as the Chicago Tribune reported Sunday, perhaps no one is waiting more anxiously than defense attorney Sam Adam, Jr. Adam will not discuss the case while the jury is still out, but he acknowledges being on edge as he awaits the verdict.

Huffington Post

Being on edge increases reliance on aggression and violence.

The Guardian - Opinion

"The hardest part for me is, I guess, not being on edge," said Staff Sgt. Francisco Narewski, a father of three who just completed his second deployment.

The New York Times

"But I'm comfortable with the discomfort because I think we all have to work harder to figure it out and I don't mind the organization being on edge a little bit about that because we're committed to winning.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

People were on edge.

The New York Times

She was on edge.

The New York Times - Sports

Everyone is on edge".

The New York Times - Magazine

But retirees are on edge.

The New York Times

Now conservatives are on edge.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "being on edge" to describe a state of heightened alertness or anxiety, especially when there's an element of unpredictability or potential danger.

Common error

Avoid using "being on edge" when the anxiety stems from a clearly defined, singular event. More precise terms like "apprehensive" or "anxious" may be more suitable in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "being on edge" functions as a predicative adjective phrase. Ludwig AI indicates that the phrase is correct and is used to describe a state of nervousness or anxiety.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "being on edge" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a state of nervousness, anxiety, or heightened alertness. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is actively used in English. Predominantly found in News & Media sources, the phrase serves to communicate a feeling of unease, often stemming from uncertainty or perceived threats. While versatile, it's important to consider the specific context when using this phrase, ensuring that it accurately reflects the source and nature of the anxiety being described. Alternatives such as "feeling anxious", "feeling stressed", or "on high alert" may provide more nuanced expressions depending on the situation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feeling anxious

Focuses on the emotional state of anxiety, removing the physical implication of being near an edge.

feeling stressed

Highlights the pressure and tension experienced, rather than a constant state of alertness.

feeling apprehensive

Emphasizes anticipation of something negative, rather than a general state of alertness.

on tenterhooks

Suggests a state of suspense and nervous anticipation, adding a sense of prolonged waiting.

on high alert

Implies a state of readiness and vigilance, often in response to a perceived threat.

keyed up

Highlights a state of excitement and tension, suggesting a build-up of energy.

walking on eggshells

Implies caution and carefulness to avoid upsetting someone or causing problems.

on pins and needles

Expresses nervous anticipation or anxiety about something that is about to happen.

with bated breath

Focuses on the anticipation and suspense, often associated with waiting for an outcome.

on the lookout

Implies a state of actively watching for something, usually a potential threat or opportunity.

FAQs

What does "being on edge" mean?

The phrase "being on edge" means feeling nervous, anxious, or tense, often due to uncertainty or potential danger.

How can I use "being on edge" in a sentence?

You can use "being on edge" to describe someone's state of mind. For example: "After the news, I found myself "feeling anxious" and "being on edge" for the rest of the day."

What's the difference between "being on edge" and "feeling stressed"?

"Being on edge" implies a heightened state of alertness and anticipation, while "feeling stressed" suggests experiencing pressure and tension.

What are some alternatives to "being on edge"?

You can use alternatives like "feeling anxious", "on tenterhooks", or "on high alert", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.