on an edge

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on an edge" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a state of being in a precarious or unstable situation, often implying tension or anxiety. Example: "She felt like she was on an edge, waiting for the results of her job interview."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Her voice takes on an edge.

The New York Times

For the first time, his voice took on an edge.

The Washington Post

As his aides looked on with concern, Mr. Clinton's voice took on an edge.

The New York Times

Once word of the expansion got out last year, the pitches took on an edge that was less than collegial.

The New York Times

If the user clicks on an edge, that point is translated to the center of the sphere but no rotation or selection occurs.

Stanford University

Um Jihad's voice took on an edge of defiance as she summarized her community's plight: "They demolish and we rebuild".

Huffington Post

Crack the egg (one handed) on an edge: typically the top edge of the container you are about to put the contents into.

WikiHow

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

The complete derivation is illustrated on an edge-preserving optical flow estimator and on image restoration.

Real-Time Imaging

Maybe you're deploying a predictive maintenance capability across your product base, or you're banking on an edge-computing model.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

A test case demonstrated that the algorithm could minimize impact of timber harvest on an edge-sensitive bird species.

Ecological Modelling

The Smart Touch remote uses touch controls on an edge-to-edge touch surface that comprises the remote itself.

TechCrunch

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on an edge" to convey a sense of anticipation, risk, or instability in a situation or character's state. For example, "The company was operating "on an edge" due to the sudden market crash."

Common error

While "on an edge" can effectively create tension, avoid using it in every sentence to describe a situation. Overuse can diminish its impact and make your writing sound melodramatic. Instead, vary your language to describe the situation from multiple perspectives.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on an edge" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase that modifies a noun or verb, adding information about location, state, or condition. As Ludwig AI confirm it describes precarious and unstable situations.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

30%

Science

25%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "on an edge" is a prepositional phrase used to describe situations characterized by instability, risk, or proximity to a significant change. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical correctness and usability make it suitable for various writing styles, though overuse in overly dramatic contexts should be avoided. While it's commonly found in news, scientific, and wiki environments, this phrase can also be adapted to suit different writing needs. Be sure to keep its original purpose in mind, which is to add an aura of tension, anticipation, or, more often than not, both.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

on the brink

Indicates being very close to a significant or dangerous event.

on the verge

Similar to 'on the brink', suggesting imminence of an event or state.

at the limit

Implies reaching the maximum extent or capacity.

in a precarious position

Highlights a state of instability and potential danger.

in a vulnerable state

Emphasizes susceptibility to harm or negative influence.

walking a tightrope

Suggests balancing conflicting demands or risks.

close to the line

Implies nearing the boundary of acceptable behavior or risk.

skating on thin ice

Similar to 'close to the line', suggesting risky behavior.

at a critical juncture

Indicates a decisive point in a process or situation.

in a borderline situation

Describes a condition that is uncertain and could change rapidly.

FAQs

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

You can use "on an edge" to describe a situation that is unstable or precarious. For example, "The negotiations were "on an edge" as both parties refused to compromise further."

What does it mean to be "on an edge"?

Being "on an edge" implies a state of being close to a significant change, often one involving risk or uncertainty. It suggests a lack of stability and potential for sudden shifts.

Which is more appropriate: "on an edge" or "on the edge"?

"On the edge" is more common and typically refers to being physically or metaphorically near a boundary. "On an edge", while grammatically correct, usually refers to a specific edge or a precarious situation.

Are there synonyms for being "on an edge"?

Yes, you can use alternatives such as "on the brink", "on the verge", or "in a precarious position" depending on the specific context.