approaching the finish line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "approaching the finish line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is nearing the completion of a task, project, or goal. Example: "After months of hard work, we are finally approaching the finish line with this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

She was smiling more than she usually does approaching the finish line in Central Park.

The New York Times - Sports

As CW completes its sales process, two other networks, CBS and Fox, are approaching the finish line and may be wrapped up on Friday or Monday.

The New York Times

That's only one example of how the campaigns are approaching the finish line, but it illustrates the contrast in their conceptions of what voters want to hear.

The New York Times

A quick glance at the runners approaching the finish line at 4 hours 9 minutes — the time the first bomb exploded at the Boston Marathon — was revealing.

The New York Times - Sports

He was approaching the finish line on a post-production schedule that included developing a computer-generated character on a modest budget, and months of commuting to a London studio.

The New York Times

The average age of the affected racers was 42, and an overwhelming majority of them were approaching the finish line - within the last six miles for the marathon and the final three for the half - when they fell.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

As you approached the finish line, supporters lined the streets.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Meanwhile, the US rider Chloe Dygert was violently sick as her team approached the finish line.

The Guardian - Sport

Harrison's plans was to throw his arms out in front of him as he approached the finish line.

The Washington Post

A participant in the Boston Marathon recorded this video of Monday's explosion as she approached the finish line.

The New York Times

Cheers erupted as he approached the finish line with his two children -- son Beau, 10, and daughter Mackenzie, 7 -- at his side.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "approaching the finish line" to convey a sense of progress and anticipation of completion. It works well in both literal (races, projects) and figurative contexts (political campaigns, personal goals).

Common error

While suitable for many situations, avoid using "approaching the finish line" in highly formal or academic writing where more precise language might be preferred. Consider alternatives like "nearing completion" or "close to finalization" in those cases.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "approaching the finish line" functions as a descriptive phrase, often used as part of a predicate to indicate that something is nearing its completion. Ludwig's examples showcase its frequent use in news and media to describe progress towards a goal.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "approaching the finish line" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression, as affirmed by Ludwig. It effectively communicates the idea of nearing completion in various contexts, primarily in news and media. While versatile, it's advisable to use more precise language in highly formal settings. Alternatives such as "nearing the end" or "close to completion" can be considered for nuanced expression. This phrase serves as a versatile tool for conveying progress and anticipation, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearing the end

Focuses on the temporal aspect of almost being finished.

close to completion

Highlights the state of the task being almost complete.

drawing near the conclusion

More formal and emphasizes the concluding aspect.

on the verge of finishing

Emphasizes imminence of completion.

in the home stretch

An idiomatic expression, implying the final part of a race or task.

about to conclude

Highlights the immediate future aspect of finishing.

nearing fruition

Focuses on achieving a desired outcome or result.

reaching the final stage

Emphasizes the progression to the last part of a process.

in sight of the goal

Highlights the visibility of the objective.

closing in on the deadline

Focuses on time sensitivity.

FAQs

What does it mean to say something is "approaching the finish line"?

Saying something is "approaching the finish line" means it's nearing completion or the end of a process. It implies progress is being made and the final result is expected soon.

How can I use "approaching the finish line" in a sentence?

You can use "approaching the finish line" in sentences like: "After months of development, the software project is finally approaching the finish line." or "With the election only weeks away, the campaign is approaching the finish line."

What can I say instead of "approaching the finish line"?

You can use alternatives like "nearing the end", "close to completion", or "in the home stretch" depending on the context.

Is "approaching the finish line" only used in sports contexts?

No, "approaching the finish line" is not limited to sports. While it originates from racing, it's commonly used figuratively to describe the near completion of any project, task, or goal.