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

The decision to set that tone staggering through all 10 minutes of the extended cut might scan as raw inspiration, placing Spacemen 3 on a narrow band from La Monte Young and Terry Riley to some brilliant dro)))ne future.

— Gabriel Szatan, Pitchfork, 18 Oct. 2026
Recent polls have shown Jackson holding only a narrow lead over Democrat Keisha Lance Bottoms.

— DEMOCRAT-GAZETTE STAFF FROM WIRE REPORTS, Arkansas Online, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of narrow

Adjective

With six couples, having two separate houses gave us space to spread out while keeping everyone close enough to gather for dinner, drinks, and games.

— Jessica Chapel, Condé Nast Traveler, 17 Oct. 2026
These regions could warrant closer investigation, but the assessment does not establish that any is suitable for a future greenhouse.

— Rupendra Brahambhatt, Interesting Engineering, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of close

Adjective

Certain oils can soften dry, flaky skin and help reduce moisture loss, which may be especially helpful if your scalp feels tight or dry after shampooing.

— Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Miami Herald, 17 Oct. 2026
Republicans are fighting to hold on to the Texas Senate seat, as polls point to a tight race between Paxton and Democratic opponent James Talarico.

— Joe Walsh, CBS News, 16 Oct. 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 21 Oct. 2026.

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Synonyms of down-to-the-wire

adjective

Example Sentences

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