closer to the finish line

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "closer to the finish line" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a situation where someone or something is nearing the end of a process, task, or goal. Example: "After months of hard work, we are finally closer to the finish line with this project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"Something's always going to change psychologically as you get closer to the finish line," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

McCain's bounce, therefore, will likely take him correspondingly closer to the finish line.

The New Yorker

The first way is the most literal: delegates are awarded, potentially bringing a candidate closer to the finish line.

The New York Times

Only when they're closer to the finish line should people focus on the remaining distance between them and their goal.

Harvard Business Review

American Ballet Theater (Friday and Saturday, Monday through Thursday) The company's annual Met season lumbers closer to the finish line with another week of story-ballets.

The New York Times - Arts

What he saw at the 13th was enough of a gap to convince him he could pull off the shot and move closer to the finish line.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

I've already got my date with an ice bath and some chocolate milk at my good pal and running buddy Aubrey's so-close-to-the-finish-line apartment and a post-race victory party lined up with Caitlin and our friends and family (at a top secret location).

Huffington Post

Mr López, who is accused of inciting violence during protests that began earlier this year but have since sputtered, has been in custody since February.Mexico's groundbreaking energy reform came closer to the finishing-line.

The Economist

Rosalind Chia was so close to the finish line.

The Guardian

Among the current field of exercise-pill competitors, Evans is the closest to the finish line.

The New Yorker

IF YOU GO Off to the Races THE 2003 Nascar Winston Cup Championship season is close to the finish line.

The New York Times - Travel

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "closer to the finish line" when you want to emphasize progress towards a tangible goal or the final stages of a project. It's particularly effective in contexts where a sense of competition or forward momentum is relevant.

Common error

Avoid using "closer to the finish line" in contexts where the race metaphor doesn't fit. For example, describing emotional healing as "getting closer to the finish line" might trivialize the experience. Choose more appropriate language for abstract or sensitive situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "closer to the finish line" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb and indicating the degree of progress towards a specified goal. It suggests movement or advancement in a process. According to Ludwig, this phrase is usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Formal & Business

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "closer to the finish line" is a common and grammatically sound expression used to describe progress towards a specific objective. Ludwig AI affirms its correctness and usability in written English. While it employs a race metaphor, its prevalence in news and business contexts, suggests a neutral register suitable for various situations. When writing, it's most effective to use this expression when highlighting the forward momentum of a project or endeavor, but avoid overuse in situations where the metaphor feels forced or inappropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

nearing completion

Focuses on the process of completion rather than a race analogy.

approaching the end

A more direct and less metaphorical way of saying something is almost done.

on the verge of completion

Implies imminence, suggesting completion is very near.

drawing to a close

Emphasizes the final stages of a process or event.

in the home stretch

An idiomatic expression that is more specific to races or competitions.

almost there

A simple and informal way to indicate proximity to a goal.

on the cusp of success

Highlights the positive outcome expected upon completion.

nearing fruition

More formal, suggesting a plan or project is about to be realized.

within reach

Focuses on the attainability of the goal.

in sight of the goal

Emphasizes that the objective is visible and achievable.

FAQs

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

You can use "closer to the finish line" to describe the progress of a project or goal. For example, "After months of development, we are getting "closer to the finish line" with our new product."

What's a more formal way to say "closer to the finish line"?

For a more formal tone, consider using phrases like "nearing completion" or "approaching the end". These avoid the race metaphor and maintain a professional tone.

Is it appropriate to use "closer to the finish line" in all situations?

While "closer to the finish line" is generally acceptable, it's best suited for situations where progress toward a clear objective is being discussed. It may not be appropriate in contexts that require sensitivity or a less goal-oriented perspective.

What's the difference between "closer to the finish line" and "almost there"?

"Closer to the finish line" implies a process of making progress, while "almost there" suggests imminent arrival. The former is more suitable when describing ongoing efforts; the latter when the goal is nearly achieved.