Welcome to our exploration of “edge” idioms! These are phrases that include the word “edge” or convey the feeling of being on the verge of something. These idioms can be fun and interesting to learn, and they are used quite often in everyday English. Let’s dive into some popular examples that are easy to understand and use.
Edge Idioms
Here are 20 edge idioms in English.
1. On the edge
Meaning: Feeling very anxious
Example: I was on the edge all day yesterday.
2. Cutting edge
Meaning: Highly advanced
Example: They use cutting edge technology.
3. Edge out
Meaning: To win or succeed narrowly
Example: She edged out the competition.
4. Over the edge
Meaning: To make someone lose control
Example: That noise is driving me over the edge.
5. Have the edge over
Meaning: To have an advantage
Example: He has the edge over his rivals.
6. On the razor’s edge
Meaning: In a risky situation
Example: He lives life on the razor’s edge.
7. Edge forward
Meaning: To move forward slowly
Example: She edged forward in line.
8. Set someone’s teeth on edge
Meaning: Irritate or annoy someone
Example: His voice sets my teeth on edge.
9. Edge into
Meaning: Enter gradually
Example: He edged into the crowded room.
10. Edged out
Meaning: Pushed out or excluded
Example: She felt edged out of the group.
11. The edge of glory
Meaning: Close to achieving success
Example: He’s on the edge of glory now.
12. Edge away
Meaning: To slowly move away
Example: She edged away from the argument.
13. Take the edge off
Meaning: Reduce intensity
Example: A nap can take the edge off fatigue.
14. Live on the edge
Meaning: Live dangerously
Example: He likes to live on the edge.
15. Edge into the lead
Meaning: Gradually get ahead
Example: He edged into the lead near the end.
16. Edge closer
Meaning: Approach slowly
Example: We are edging closer to the deadline.
17. On edge
Meaning: Nervous or tense
Example: She’s been on edge all morning.
18. The edge on someone
Meaning: Advantage over someone
Example: He’s got the edge on me in experience.
19. Edge past
Meaning: Pass closely by someone or something
Example: He edged past the guard unnoticed.
20. Give an edge
Meaning: Provide an advantage
Example: Experience gives him an edge in his field.
