Usage of 'live wire'

[Agnes]

If somebody says " don't talk to him right now, he's a live wire!", meaning the person not to be talked to is upset and might react violently; would this be correct usage! When I checked it out in the dictionary it meant 'lively, full of energy...' and yet it kind of makes sense when used it this context! Is it correctly used?

[BobK]

I agree with the dictionary definition.

Monica's a very quiet girl, but her little sister is a real livewire.

If you wanted to suggest someone was hyper-sensitive, you'd be more likely to refer to electricity like this:

If you go near him, sparks might fly.

But you'd be more likely to refer to another sort of explosion:

Don't go near him - he's on a short fuse.

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[Agnes]

Thanks for the quick response!

[BobK]

Originally Posted by Agnes

Thanks for the quick response!

You're welcome, Agnes.

About 'on a short fuse' - it refers to a temporary condition. If someone is permanently/constitutionally short-tempered, 'he's got a short fuse'.


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