close to deadline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close to deadline" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe the proximity of an approaching due date. For example, "I'm working on the project but I'm running close to deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

They work close to deadline.

The New York Times - Arts

They envisage a nightmare scenario in which stories would be repeatedly pulled, close to deadline.

Independent

"When it gets too close to deadline, some can't paint, they get blocked," she said.

The New York Times

We journalists had been waiting for it, close to deadline, when suddenly it disappeared from the schedules.

The Guardian - Sport

When it was close to deadline, and the whole office was typing, it sounded as if the room was going to take off.

The Guardian

"Often … it depends on circumstances (how close to deadline, how many words, if I had interviewed the scientists, how easy to get the paper etc).

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

50 human-written examples

The development of the Neon Genesis Evangelion series ran close to deadlines throughout its production run.

Wikipedia

Applying too close to deadlines is stressful and makes it more difficult to prepare well thought out applications.

Huffington Post

When we're writing we're in the office every day from 10 till 6, or later as we get closer to deadline, with an hour for lunch.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Implement less risky parts later, closer to deadline in order to avoid or minimize the risk of paying penalties.

European Journal of Futures Research

Geographical definitions are always a thorny one – on a subbing shift I remember having a very lengthy close-to-deadline discussion with a writer over what exactly constituted 'the West Country'.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using the phrase "close to deadline", ensure that the context clearly indicates which deadline you are referencing to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "close to deadline" when the deadline has already passed. Instead, use phrases like "past the deadline" or "after the deadline" to accurately reflect the situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close to deadline" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause to indicate when an action is taking place in relation to an impending due date. Ludwig confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

17%

Wiki

8%

Less common in

Formal & Business

7%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "close to deadline" is a grammatically sound and commonly understood expression used to indicate the approaching end of a specified time frame. As Ludwig AI confirms, its application spans across various fields, predominantly in news, scientific, and general media. While alternatives like "nearing the deadline" or "approaching the deadline" offer similar meaning, being specific about which deadline is crucial for clarity. Use "close to deadline" to effectively communicate urgency and encourage timely action.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearing the deadline

Emphasizes the process of approaching the deadline.

approaching the deadline

Focuses on the act of getting closer to the final date.

drawing near to the deadline

More formal and emphasizes the gradual approach.

almost at the deadline

Highlights the near completion of the time available.

on the verge of the deadline

Suggests being right at the edge of the allotted time.

in the final stretch

Idiomatic and describes the last part of a task before the deadline.

up against the deadline

Implies a pressured situation due to the approaching deadline.

in sight of the deadline

Indicates that the deadline is clearly visible and imminent.

with the deadline looming

Emphasizes the threatening nature of the approaching deadline.

in the shadow of the deadline

Highlights the overpowering effect of the approaching final date.

FAQs

What does "close to deadline" mean?

The phrase "close to deadline" means that a particular task, project, or obligation is nearing its due date or final submission date. It implies that there is limited time remaining to complete it.

How can I use "close to deadline" in a sentence?

You can use "close to deadline" to describe situations where time is running out, such as "We are getting "nearer to deadline", so we need to work faster" or "The team is working hard as they are "approaching the deadline".

What are some alternatives to saying "close to deadline"?

Alternatives include "nearing the deadline", "approaching the deadline", "almost at the deadline", or running out of time. The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it better to say "close to the deadline" or "close to deadline"?

Both phrases are acceptable, but "close to the deadline" is more common and grammatically precise, as it includes the definite article "the", specifying a particular deadline.