The phrase "is on pins and needles" is an idiomatic expression used to convey a state of extreme anxiety, uneasiness, or anticipation. It typically describes someone who is fearful, nervous, or waiting anxiously for something important to happen.
The term "pins and needles" refers to the sensation of tingling or pricking needle-like sensations felt when a limb falls asleep or when pressure is applied to it for an extended period. This physical discomfort is often accompanied by a heightened sense of alertness and unease. When someone says they are "on pins and needles," they are emphasizing the intense mental and emotional state that is comparable to this physical discomfort.
In a figurative sense, being "on pins and needles" suggests a state of restlessness, restive anticipation, or unbearable suspense. It implies a heightened sense of nervousness, often due to waiting for crucial news, a significant event, or an impending outcome. This anticipation can be associated with both positive and negative emotions, depending on the context. People awaiting important exam results, job interviews, or medical test outcomes often experience this feeling. Similarly, individuals eagerly waiting for a surprise party or the arrival of a loved one can be "on pins and needles."
Overall, "is on pins and needles" typifies an emotional and mental state characterized by heightened anxiety, nervous excitement, and a sense of being on edge, closely associated with waiting for something important or uncertain to occur.
