last minute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "last minute" can be used in written English.
You can use it to describe when something needs to be done or done quickly at the very last moment. For example: I was able to finish my report at the last minute because I stayed up late to finish it.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

41 human-written examples

In the last minute.

The New York Times

Last minute predictions?

The New Yorker

How last minute?

The New York Times - Arts

Sept. 30: Last minute!

The New York Times

"At the very last minute.

Independent

This is the last minute.

Independent

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

19 human-written examples

Any last-minute ideas?

The New York Times

The last-minute preparations continued.

The New York Times - Sports

(Last-minute appointments are rare).

The New York Times

(Both made last-minute appearances).

The New York Times

The soup is last-minute.

The New York Times - Health

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "last minute" to describe actions, clarify the context (e.g., "last minute change", "last minute decision") to ensure clarity and avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "last minute" excessively without providing specific details. Overuse can make your writing vague. Instead of saying "everything was last minute", specify which aspects were rushed or unplanned.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last minute" primarily functions as an adjective modifying a noun, indicating that something occurs or is done very close to a deadline or event. Ludwig provides examples illustrating its use in various contexts such as "last minute hotel deals" or "last minute travel plans".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Wiki

35%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "last minute" functions as an adjective to describe something occurring close to a deadline or event. According to Ludwig, it is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While generally neutral in register, it's important to provide context when using "last minute" to ensure clarity. Alternatives like "eleventh hour" or "at the last moment" can be used for variety. Ludwig's AI confirms its frequent appearance across diverse sources.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at the last moment

This alternative is a more literal and less figurative way of saying "last minute".

in the nick of time

This alternative emphasizes the timing of avoiding a negative outcome.

eleventh hour

This alternative is a more idiomatic expression for doing something at the latest possible time.

on short notice

This alternative stresses the lack of advance warning.

close to the deadline

This alternative explicitly mentions the proximity to a deadline.

just in time

This alternative emphasizes the narrow escape from being too late.

at the death

This alternative, often used in sports contexts, highlights a dramatic, late occurrence.

with little time to spare

This alternative highlights the scarcity of remaining time.

at the tail end

This alternative refers to something happening near the very end of a period.

belatedly

This alternative focuses on the action being delayed.

FAQs

How can I use "last minute" in a sentence?

You can use "last minute" to describe something done or happening very close to a deadline or event. For example, "I made a "last minute decision" to attend the party."

What are some alternatives to saying "last minute"?

You can use alternatives such as "eleventh hour", "at the last moment", or "just in time", depending on the context.

Is it better to plan ahead or make "last minute" decisions?

While "last minute" decisions can sometimes be necessary or even beneficial, planning ahead is generally preferable for important tasks to avoid unnecessary stress and potential errors.

What does "last minute" mean in the context of travel?

In travel, "last minute" often refers to booking travel arrangements shortly before the departure date, potentially to take advantage of "last minute deals".