On the edge Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈɑn/, /ˈɔn/ /ˈðə/, /ðə/, /ði/ /ˈɛdʒ

AHN-thuh-EJ

UK

ˈɒn/ /ðə, ði/ /ˈɛdʒ

ON-thuh-EJ

Definition

Describes someone or something that is very close to a new situation, often stress, danger, or a big change.

Usage & Nuances

Often used metaphorically for stress, risk, or emotion, not just physical location. Common collocations: 'on the edge of my seat' (excitement), 'on the edge of collapse.' Can also mean about to do something.

• Spanish: al borde - al límite
• Portuguese (BR): à beira - no limite
• Portuguese (PT): à beira - no limite
• Chinese (Simplified): 在边缘 - 濒临
• Chinese (Traditional): 在邊緣 - 瀕臨
• Hindi: किनारे पर - कगार पर
• Arabic: على الحافة - على وشك
• Bengali: প্রান্তে - চূড়ান্ত মুহূর্তে (মানসিক অবস্থার জন্য)
• Russian: на грани
• Japanese: 瀬戸際 - ギリギリ
• Vietnamese: bên bờ vực - trên bờ
• Korean: 벼랑 끝 - 한계에
• Turkish: uçta - eşiğinde
• Urdu: کنارے پر - دہانے پر
• Indonesian: di ambang - di tepi

Example Sentences

He is on the edge of quitting his job.

basic

The glass was on the edge of the table.

basic

She is on the edge of tears.

basic

I've been on the edge all week because of exams.

natural

That horror movie kept me on the edge of my seat.

natural

After months of stress, he finally snapped—he was really on the edge.

natural