finish line

USAGE SUMMARY

"finish line" is a correct and usable part of a sentence in written English.
You can use it to describe the point at which an event ends, or at which a goal is achieved. For example: "My months of hard work paid off when I crossed the finish line."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

The finish line, and the finish line.

The Guardian

The finish line was moved".

The New York Times

"I see the finish line.

The New York Times - Sports

There was no finish line".

The New York Times - Sports

Then a loop to the finish line.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're down to the finish line.

The New York Times

I'll see him at the finish line".

The New Yorker

See you at the finish line.

The New York Times

They can all see the finish line.

The Guardian

The first across the finish line wins.

The New York Times - Sports

At the finish line, Adanna was crying.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "finish line" metaphorically, ensure the context clearly establishes what the 'race' or 'journey' represents for better understanding.

Common error

Avoid using "finish line" too casually in situations that don't involve a defined goal or endpoint; it can dilute the impact and sound cliché.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "finish line" is as a noun phrase, often functioning as a subject, object, or complement in a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in various contexts, from literal races to metaphorical representations of project completion.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Encyclopedias

4%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "finish line" is a common and grammatically sound noun phrase that represents the end of a race, project, or any endeavor with a defined endpoint. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is widely used across diverse contexts, including News & Media, Science, and Formal & Business settings. While versatile, avoid overuse in contexts lacking clear goals. Alternative phrases such as "final stage" or "end point" can be used for variety. Its function is primarily to signal completion and success.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final stretch

Describes the last portion of a task or race, implying effort close to the end.

end of the line

Similar to "end of the road", implying the conclusion of something.

end point

Focuses on the concluding point or stage of something.

the home straight

Suggests the final part of a race or competition.

final stage

Emphasizes the last phase or step in a sequence.

final phase

Indicates the concluding part of a project or process.

ultimate goal

Highlights the final objective to be attained.

end of the road

Indicates the cessation of progress or a journey.

culmination

Refers to the highest point of attainment or development.

final destination

Highlights the ultimate place or state to be reached.

FAQs

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

You can use "finish line" to describe the end of a literal race, such as "The runners sprinted toward the finish line". Metaphorically, it can represent the end of a project or goal, as in "We're nearing the finish line on this project".

What's a less literal alternative to "finish line"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "final stage", "end point", or "culmination".

Is it appropriate to use "finish line" in formal writing?

Yes, "finish line" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when used metaphorically to describe the completion of a project or achievement. However, consider the audience and context to ensure it's not too colloquial.

What's the difference between "finish line" and "goal"?

"Goal" refers to the objective you're trying to achieve, while "finish line" specifically denotes the end point of the process. The "finish line" represents the moment the goal is reached.