How Do You Spell ON EDGE?

Pronunciation: [ˌɒn ˈɛd͡ʒ] (IPA)

The phrase "on edge" refers to someone who is tense or anxious. Its spelling follows the basic rules of English orthography, with "on" pronounced as /ɒn/ and "edge" pronounced as /ɛdʒ/. The "d" in "edge" is followed by a soft "g" sound, which is represented by the letter "g" in the word's spelling. The two words are typically pronounced as one stress group, with the stress falling on the first syllable of "edge."

ON EDGE Meaning and Definition

1. "On edge" is an idiomatic expression used to describe a state of nervousness, stress, or extreme agitation. When someone is on edge, they are in a state of high alertness or anxious anticipation. This phrase often signifies a feeling of unease or tension, as if one is balancing precariously on a figurative edge.

   The term can be used in various contexts, referring to a person's psychological or emotional state. It might be experienced by someone awaiting important news, preparing for a challenging event, or feeling threatened or insecure. For instance, if a person is waiting for the results of a medical test, they might be on edge as they are worried about the outcome.

   "On edge" can also describe tense or unsettling atmospheres or situations. This might be applicable when there is a heightened sense of danger or if people are behaving erratically or aggressively. It implies an environment where individuals are easily irritated, frustrated, or ready to react impulsively due to the perceived stressors.

   Overall, "on edge" conveys a sense of vulnerability and emotional instability, where one's emotions or nerves might be teetering on the brink. The phrase serves to capture the heightened sensitivity and alertness that individuals may experience in situations that evoke fear, uncertainty, or pressure.

Common Misspellings for ON EDGE

• in edge
• kn edge
• ln edge
• pn edge
• 0n edge
• 9n edge
• ob edge
• om edge
• oj edge
• oh edge
• on wdge
• on sdge
• on ddge
• on rdge
• on 4dge
• on 3dge
• on esge
• on exge
• on ecge
• on efge

Etymology of ON EDGE

The phrase "on edge" has its origins in the 17th century, deriving from the Old English word "edge" meaning "sharp side of a blade". In the literal sense, being on the edge referred to being positioned on a narrow blade, which conveys a feeling of instability or precariousness. Over time, this phrase gradually evolved, and by the 19th century, it began to be used metaphorically to express a state of nervousness, anxiety, or tension, reflecting the idea of being perched on a figurative edge.

Idioms with the word ON EDGE

• set sb's teeth on edge The idiom "set sb's teeth on edge" means to cause someone to feel irritated, annoyed, or uncomfortable, usually as a result of an unpleasant sound, taste, or behavior. It implies a feeling of intense discomfort that can be similar to the sensation of nails scraping against a chalkboard.
• set teeth on edge The idiom "set teeth on edge" means to cause a feeling of irritation, discomfort, or annoyance. It is often used to describe a noise, taste, or behavior that is unpleasant or grating.
• set someone's teeth on edge The idiom "set someone's teeth on edge" means to cause someone to feel irritated, uneasy, or annoyed.
• set somebody’s teeth on edge The idiom "set somebody's teeth on edge" means to irritate or annoy someone greatly, causing a feeling of discomfort or displeasure.
• put (someone's) teeth on edge To put someone's teeth on edge means to cause someone to feel uncomfortable, irritated, or anxious. It implies a feeling of unease or annoyance that makes a person tense or on edge, similar to the sensation felt when biting on a hard object that sets one's teeth on edge.
• set (one's) teeth on edge The idiom "set (one's) teeth on edge" means to cause irritation, annoyance, or discomfort. It is commonly used to describe a sound or taste that is unpleasant and induces a strong negative reaction. It can also refer to a situation or behavior that causes frustration or agitation.
• set somebody's teeth on edge To "set somebody's teeth on edge" means to annoy, irritate, or cause discomfort to someone. It refers to a feeling of irritation that causes a slight jarring or tension in one's teeth, similar to the sensation of scraping nails on a chalkboard.
• set your teeth on edge The idiom "set your teeth on edge" is an expression used to describe when something causes a feeling of extreme annoyance, irritation, or displeasure. It refers to a sensation that makes one's teeth feel uncomfortable or gives a shuddering feeling similar to the sound of teeth grinding against each other.
• be on edge The idiom "be on edge" means to be nervous, anxious, or tense, usually due to anticipation or fear of something.
• on edge "Feeling nervous, stressed, or tense, often anticipating something unpleasant or worrying."