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 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 One of the more memorable high school basketball postseasons in recent memory — highlighted with back-to-back, down-to-the-wire North Coast Section boys games at San Leandro High School on Saturday night — feeds into this week’s CIF Northern California tournament, which opens Tuesday. — Mitch Stephens, San Francisco Chronicle, 2 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for down-to-the-wire

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

Adjective

The broad straps offset the lower neckline, which scoops at its narrowest point for a softer look, rather than forming a harsh line.

— Irene Richardson, InStyle, 13 July 2026
Plans with lower monthly costs often have narrower networks of doctors and hospitals, and less generous drug coverage.

— Renuka Rayasam, The Orlando Sentinel, 13 July 2026

Definition of narrow

Adjective

Even though talks with the Boston Red Sox at last year’s deadline never got close, the confusion provided by an incorrect tweet announcing Ryan’s trade to New England put the pitcher at the top of every trade list before the season even began.

— Dan Hayes, New York Times, 6 July 2026
Ashley Smith is the manager of player engagement for the NFL, and the siblings are close.

— Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 6 July 2026

Definition of close

Adjective

Despite persistent inflation and tighter household budgets, Bankrate analyst Alex Gailey says even small financial adjustments can make a meaningful difference over time.

— Bonnie Laden, CBS News, 14 July 2026
Pilots are launching into a bottleneck already packed with ferries, commercial vessels, and tour boats, while sharing tight overhead airspace with NYPD, news, and helicopters, often with limited visibility.

— Janet Handal, New York Daily News, 13 July 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 18 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of down-to-the-wire

adjective

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