on edge

Idioms  

1. Tense, nervous, irritable, as in We were all on edge as we waited for the surgeon's report. This expression transfers the edge of a cutting instrument to one's feelings. [Late 1800s] Also see on the edge; set one's teeth on edge.

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Example Sentences

An extended pause in retail-sales growth would likely put economists on edge.

From The Wall Street Journal

Her work has taken on renewed urgency in recent months as L.A. has seen an intensified wave of federal immigration enforcement operations that have left neighborhoods on edge.

From Los Angeles Times

Kate told the court she is having therapy, and feels on edge if men approach her and does not feel safe when she's performing on stage.

From BBC

The earth shuddered again, a small jolt this time, but enough to put Jonathan’s nerves on edge.

From Literature

Investors are on edge about the January jobs report after an anxious week on Wall Street — but the survey is likely to tell them more about the past than the future of a fragile U.S. labor market.

From MarketWatch