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Chan-Seung Lee
Joined: 03 Dec 2005
Posts: 1032
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 Posted: Sun Mar 09, 2008 11:50 pm Post subject: over the edge vs on the edge |
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| Motivational books, tapes, and videos help support this theory by circulation an array of inspirational phrases based on the notion that one shouldn't stop until they've reched the top. Unfortunately, while these maxims help push us to our limits, they can also push us over the edge. |
Can I use 'on the edge' or 'on edge' instead of 'over the edge' while the meaning is the same.?
In my dictionary, there is no 'over the edge' while 'on the edge' and 'on edge' exist.
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openenglish
Joined: 26 Oct 2007
Posts: 35
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| Posted: Tue Mar 11, 2008 12:57 pm Post subject: |
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I've heard "on edge" used a lot... what do you mean when you say "over the edge"?
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CP
Joined: 12 Jun 2006
Posts: 2875
Location: California
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| Posted: Wed Mar 12, 2008 8:27 am Post subject: |
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Over the edge is a common expression that means pushed too far, beyond some limit. Imagine standing at the edge of a cliff. You're fine so long as you don't go beyond the edge of the cliff, don't go over the edge.
On the edge is right at the maximum point, but not quite too far.
On edge is different. It means jumpy, nervous, worried, anxious. I didn't sleep enough last night, and all day I've been on edge.
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