Synonyms of down-to-the-wire

down-to-the-wire

adjective

ˈdau̇n-tə-ṯhə-ˈwī(-ə)r 

as in narrow

showing little difference in the standing of the competitors

a down-to-the-wire contest for the pennant

Synonyms & Similar Words

• narrow
• close
• tight
• crowded
• hairbreadth
• nip and tuck
• neck and neck

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of down-to-the-wire

The true significance of Pakistan's intervention only became clear when both sides agreed to a pause shortly after a down-to-the-wire plea from the country's prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif. — Betsy Joles, NPR, 12 Apr. 2026

Less than a month ago, the Lakers squandered double-digit leads against the Phoenix Suns and Orlando Magic in down-to-the-wire defeats. — Benjamin Royer, Oc Register, 19 Mar. 2026

The tides turned for the Tigers after their first significant road win, a down-to-the-wire 86-85 victory over Texas A&M. — Ally Schniepp, Kansas City Star, 19 Mar. 2026

The result is some down-to-the-wire races in several major categories. — David Sims, The Atlantic, 13 Mar. 2026