live on (one's) nerves

live on (one's) nerves

To be in a constant state of anxiety, fear, or worry. Marty seems to be living on his nerves ever since the accident.

See also: live, nerve, on

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

live on your nerves

BRITISH

If someone lives on their nerves, they are always worried and anxious, usually because they are in a difficult situation. In the run-up to the election she was living on her nerves.

See also: live, nerve, on

Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed. © HarperCollins Publishers 2012

live on your nerves (or your nerve ends)

be extremely anxious or tense.

See also: live, nerve, on

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017