The phrase "takes the edge" implies reducing the sharpness or intensity of something, so antonyms would be words that suggest increasing or intensifying. Examples of such words include "sharpens," "heightens," "intensifies," and "magnifies." Instead of taking the edge off a situation, one could intensify the experience by embracing it fully or confronting it head-on. For example, instead of taking the edge off a scary movie, you could watch it with the lights off and the sound turned up to heighten the suspense. In summary, antonyms for "takes the edge" include words suggesting intensification, heightening, magnifying, and sharpening.