almost expired

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "almost expired" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is often used when talking about something that is close to a deadline, when the timeline is almost up. For example, "I need to renew my driver's license before it almost expires next month."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

I've had one in between, but it's almost expired.

The New Yorker

Waited until the clock had almost expired to kick a field goal?

The New York Times

When the two Sudans signed a peace deal in 2005, Mr. Kony's license almost expired.

The New York Times

Even Apple almost expired before begging Steve Jobs to return to the company.

The Economist

The stipulated date almost expired before she could obtain exit papers in Soviet occupied Budapest.

The New York Times

Two episodes ago, Poole almost expired with excitement at the prospect of watching Antiques Roadshow.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

Dickens, a habitué of the town, has one of his characters in The Pickwick Papers almost expire with relief once she reaches the haven of the Albion Hotel in Broadstairs, having had to endure the day-tripping of Margate en route.

Independent

Over at the excellent House Next Door, for instance, writer Matt Noller almost expires with enthusiasm: "It doesn't matter how big a Kaufman devotee you are, how many times you've seen Being John Malkovich or Adaptation or Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind.

The Guardian - Film

With the 30-second shot clock almost expiring, they fouled Gaughan while she attempted a three-pointer.

Los Angeles Times

ABB itself nearly expired in 2002, when asbestos claims of $2.4 billion almost forced the company into bankruptcy.

Forbes

Though twice wounded, Lyon replied: "I will lead you; come on, brave men," and, while gallantly charging at their head, was struck in the breast by a Minie ball, and almost instantly expired.

University of Chicago

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "almost expired", clarify what is expiring (e.g., "The milk is almost expired" or "My passport is almost expired") to ensure clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "almost expired" when referring to something that has already passed its expiration date. Instead, use "expired" or "has expired".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "almost expired" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun, indicating that the noun is in a state of nearing its expiration date. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used. Examples include references to food, documents, and agreements.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

43%

Academia

21%

Science

15%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "almost expired" is a grammatically correct and commonly used expression that indicates something is nearing its expiration date. As Ludwig AI states, it serves to convey a sense of urgency and prompts action. The expression finds frequent use in various contexts, including news media, academic discourse, and scientific publications, as well as encyclopedias or wikis. It's a neutral expression, suitable for both formal and informal communication. When using "almost expired", it's best practice to clarify what exactly is expiring, and to avoid using it for things that have already expired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearly expiring

Emphasizes the closeness to the point of expiration with a slight variation in the adverb used.

close to expiring

Highlights proximity to the expiration date or time, offering a slightly more descriptive alternative.

about to expire

Indicates an imminent expiration, suggesting the event is just about to happen.

on the verge of expiring

Suggests that expiration is very near, emphasizing the precariousness of the situation.

nearing its expiration date

Specifies that something is approaching the date on which it will expire, adding clarity.

soon to expire

Focuses on the short timeframe before expiration, simplifying the phrase.

almost running out

Shifts the focus to the resource or time being depleted, rather than the formal concept of expiration.

virtually expired

Indicates a state that is practically expired, highlighting the advanced stage.

nearly finished

Broadens the concept to general completion or termination, losing some of the specificity of expiration.

practically invalid

Emphasizes the loss of validity due to the near expiration, changing the focus slightly.

FAQs

What does "almost expired" mean?

The phrase "almost expired" indicates that something is very close to its expiration date, meaning it's about to become unusable or invalid.

What can I say instead of "almost expired"?

You can use alternatives like "nearly expiring", "close to expiring", or "about to expire" depending on the context.

Is it safe to use something that is "almost expired"?

It depends on what is "almost expired". For food, it's generally not recommended. For documents, ensure you renew them before they become invalid.

How do I know if something is "almost expired"?

Check the expiration date on the product or document. If it's within a short timeframe (e.g., a few days or weeks), it's considered "almost expired".