What does “Under the wire” mean?
"Under the wire" means completing or accomplishing something at the last possible moment.
What context can I use the in?
Example
He submitted his assignment just under the wire.
Example
They finished the project under the wire before the deadline.
Example
She made it to the airport under the wire and caught her flight
Is “Under the wire” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Under the wire” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Under the wire” effectively in context?
You can use "Under the wire" to describe a situation where something is completed or achieved at the last possible moment. It emphasizes the idea of narrowly meeting a deadline or getting something done just in time. For example, if someone submits an assignment right before it's due, you might say, 'He submitted his assignment just "under the wire".'
- 1Academic
She finished her essay under the wire and handed it in minutes before the deadline.
- 2Work
They completed the project under the wire before the end of the workday.
- 3Travel
He arrived at the train station under the wire and managed to catch the last train.
Similar phrases to “Under the wire”:
Last-minute
Something done or completed at the final moment or just before a deadline
Example
She made some last-minute changes to her presentation before the meeting.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Under the wire” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Under the wire" is unknown.
Is “Under the wire” common in everyday conversation?
"Under the wire" is a relatively common idiom in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they narrowly meet a deadline or accomplish something just in time.
What tone does “Under the wire” have?
"Under the wire" conveys a tone of urgency and excitement. It suggests that something was accomplished at the last possible moment, adding a sense of suspense or relief to the situation.
Can “Under the wire” be used in informal and formal settings?
"Under the wire" is a fairly informal phrase that can be used in casual conversations with friends, family, and colleagues. However, it can also be used in more formal settings such as business meetings or professional emails to describe completing tasks or meeting deadlines.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"Under the wire" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'They finished the project just "under the wire".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'We made it "under the wire"!' to express relief or excitement about completing something in the nick of time.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- at the eleventh hour
- in the nick of time
- just in time
- barely making it
- narrowly meeting the deadline
Antonyms
- ahead of schedule
- well in advance
- early completion
- plenty of time
