DOWN-TO-THE-WIRE Synonyms: 7 Similar Words

down-to-the-wire

adjective

ˈdau̇n-tə-ṯhə-ˈwī(-ə)r

Definition of down-to-the-wire

as in narrow

showing little difference in the standing of the competitors a down-to-the-wire contest for the pennant

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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 See All Example Sentences for down-to-the-wire

Recent Examples of Synonyms for down-to-the-wire

Adjective

Built in 1884 to serve the area’s booming silver mines, the narrow-gauge railroad climbs nearly 600 feet in just two miles, crossing the famous Devil’s Gate High Bridge before reaching the historic mining town of Silver Plume.

— Jocelyn Rowley, Denver Post, 25 Aug. 2026
Those gains in a high-turnout presidential year, combined with the very narrow final margin — after a recount — made the decision simple for Bohannan to sign up a third time.

— ABC News, ABC News, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of narrow

Adjective

The technology, used in all Metro Nashville Public Schools, didn’t spot the weapon because the shooter wasn’t close enough to cameras for the system to get an accurate read and activate the alarm, the district said.

— Cindy Von Quednow, CNN Money, 24 Aug. 2026
June 21 – July 22 A plan with someone close may need to fit what serves you close to home.

— Tarot.com, Sun Sentinel, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of close

Adjective

Local institutions — already facing shortages of foreign currency and tight liquidity — must raise capital to finance such a sale, but MTN expects the transaction to close by year-end.

— Tiisetso Motsoeneng, semafor.com, 24 Aug. 2026
Graham Nordone and Norman are locked in a tight contest, according to polls.

— Naomi Lim, The Washington Examiner, 24 Aug. 2026

Definition of tight

Browse Nearby Words

down to the ground

down-to-the-wire

downtown

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“Down-to-the-wire.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/down-to-the-wire. Accessed 29 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of down-to-the-wire

adjective

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