as the end approaches

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "as the end approaches" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to indicate a time frame or situation that is nearing completion or conclusion. Example: "As the end approaches, we must reflect on our achievements and prepare for the next chapter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

As the end approaches, the issues start to blur.

The New York Times

As the end approaches, Muslims believe, there will be a period of moral decay.

The New York Times - Arts

So, as the end approaches, why not drink champagne and have one last dance.

Independent

As the end approaches, they try to come up with an account of what matters to Hillary and what doesn't—an explanation of who she truly is.

The New Yorker

As the end approaches, they try to come up with an account of what matters to Hillary and what doesn't — an explanation of who she truly is.

The New Yorker

As the end approaches, Jack must figure out what to do with his teenaged daughter Rose (Camilla Belle), a wild child who has never lived in mainstream America, but can no longer survive on the island.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

He spotted also that Nadal was taking more risks than normal as the end approached.

The Guardian - Sport

As the end approached, refugees from Baghouz and SDF fighters said, the caliphate's smugglers were making vast sums.

The Washington Post

(As our own Christopher, Buckley, reports, Sidney wrote his suffering ex-friend a kind note as the end approached, and received a kind reply).

The New Yorker

As the end approached, the most common sentiment seemed to be "We are all Vietnamese", pronounced in a manner somewhere between hope and resignation.

The Guardian

But, as the end approached and German troops departed, the military allegedly buried gold, jewels, art works, and even futuristic weapons.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "as the end approaches" to create a sense of anticipation or reflection about the period leading up to a conclusion. For example, "As the end approaches, it's a good time to review your progress and set goals for the future."

Common error

Avoid using "as the end approaches" in situations where a simpler, more direct expression would be more appropriate. Overusing it in mundane scenarios can sound melodramatic or forced. For example, instead of saying "As the end of lunch approaches, I should order dessert", you could say "I should order dessert soon."

Linguistic Context

The phrase functions as an adverbial phrase of time, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an action or state occurs in relation to the nearing conclusion of something. Ludwig shows the phrase used across different source types.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "as the end approaches" is a grammatically sound and commonly used phrase that signals the nearing conclusion of an event or period. As Ludwig confirms, it is frequently found in news and media contexts, with some presence in scientific and encyclopedic writings. While versatile, it's best to avoid overuse in overly dramatic situations. Consider alternatives like "as the finale nears" or "with the ending in sight" for variety. Overall, it is a useful phrase for creating a sense of anticipation or reflection in your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

as the finale nears

This alternative uses "finale" to emphasize the concluding event, often implying a sense of climax or culmination.

as the conclusion draws near

This option provides a more formal and direct synonym, highlighting the act of something concluding.

with the ending in sight

This phrase emphasizes the visibility or predictability of the end.

as time runs out

This alternative focuses on the limited time remaining, adding a sense of urgency.

in the home stretch

An idiomatic expression, it conveys being in the final part of a race or project.

towards the culmination

Highlights the approaching peak or high point, implying a natural development towards it.

as the deadline looms

This alternative stresses the pressure and impending nature of a specific deadline.

nearing its termination

A formal option, suitable in contexts which require technical or official language.

with the cessation impending

Focuses on the imminence of something stopping, often used in serious or critical situations.

as the curtain falls

This phrase uses a theatrical metaphor to represent the end of a performance or event.

FAQs

What does "as the end approaches" mean?

The phrase "as the end approaches" signifies that something is nearing its conclusion or final stage. It implies a period of time leading up to the termination of an event, project, or even life itself.

How can I use "as the end approaches" in a sentence?

You can use "as the end approaches" to describe the final stages of a process or event. For instance, "As the end of the fiscal year approaches, companies often focus on meeting their financial targets."

What are some alternatives to "as the end approaches"?

Alternatives to "as the end approaches" include phrases like "as the finale nears", "as the conclusion draws near", or "with the ending in sight", depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "as the end approaches" in formal writing?

Yes, "as the end approaches" is suitable for formal writing. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and doesn't sound overly dramatic. Simpler phrases might be preferable in some professional contexts.