[Idiom] ON PINS AND NEEDLES. - Explore Idioms to Express Anxiety in English!

Anxious or nervous.

When someone says they are "on pins and needles," they mean they are feeling anxious or nervous, particularly in anticipation of something. This idiom likely originates from the tingling sensations or discomfort you might feel when as if actual pins or needles are poking you, reflecting the physical reaction to psychological anxiety. It's commonly used when waiting for important results or news that could impact one's life significantly.

Example Sentences

1. She was on pins and needles waiting for the news.

   Anxiously waiting for news.

2. Tom sat on pins and needles during the interview.

   Feeling tense and nervous during the interview.

3. I've been on pins and hook throughout this whole process, just hoping we'd succeed.

   Feeling anxious throughout the entire process, hoping for success.