last minute dash

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "last minute dash" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a hurried or frantic effort to complete something just before a deadline. Example: "As the deadline approached, the team engaged in a last minute dash to finalize the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Eager investors continued to place orders in a last minute dash on Tuesday before the 11.59pm deadline.

The Guardian

This leaves a gaping dark hole on the Pyramid Stage for Friday 26 June so, while we're waiting for official news on a Foos replacement, let's take a lot at the strongest contenders to make a last minute dash to Worthy Farm.

Independent

Nevertheless, some people seem to enjoy the last minute dash.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

So we rely on a simple system to save us from last minute dashes to the store.

Huffington Post

A romantic comedy so tired that it even has a last-minute dash to the airport.

Independent

Forget about the last-minute dash to the gate with bags to check.

The New York Times

They also found boxes of live ammunition, apparently tossed away in the last-minute dash to leave the compound.

The Guardian

For Spall, 57, the victory had involved a last-minute dash in order to reach the ceremony on time.

The Guardian - Film

Either you brave the crowds for a last-minute dash to Waterstones, or Auntie Sue goes empty-handed.

The Guardian - Tech

On the day of the big performance, Mr. Frank ran around his neighborhood in a last-minute dash for props.

The New York Times

Both David Cameron and Ed Miliband have dropped engagements in England this week for a last-minute dash to Scotland as they scramble to save the union.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "last minute dash" to vividly describe situations where urgency and speed are crucial due to impending deadlines or opportunities. For example: "The team made a "last minute dash" to complete the presentation before the client meeting."

Common error

While "last minute dash" is acceptable, be mindful of its slightly informal tone. In highly formal or professional documents, consider using phrases like "final effort" or "urgent attempt" for a more appropriate register.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last minute dash" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used as an object or complement within a sentence. It describes a specific type of action or effort undertaken with urgency, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "last minute dash" is a grammatically sound and understandable English expression that describes a hurried or frantic effort to complete something just before a deadline. Ludwig confirms its correctness. While common in news and media, as observed from the provided examples, it's less frequent in formal writing. When using the phrase, it's important to consider the context and the level of formality required. If a more formal tone is needed, consider alternatives such as "final effort" or "urgent attempt". Overall, "last minute dash" is a useful phrase for vividly describing situations characterized by urgency and limited time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final rush

Focuses on the urgency and intensity of the effort.

last-second effort

Highlights the timing, emphasizing that the effort occurs right before a deadline.

eleventh-hour attempt

Emphasizes the lateness of the attempt, suggesting a sense of desperation.

frantic scramble

Stresses the chaotic and disorganized nature of the effort.

desperate sprint

Conveys a sense of urgency and a race against time.

closing stretch

Implies the final part of the effort

death-defying race

Implies a sense of risk during the effort

last-ditch attempt

Highlights the desperation and unlikeliness of success.

final push

Indicates a strong effort to achieve a goal at the end.

last-gasp effort

Suggests the effort is made with very little time remaining.

FAQs

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

You can use "last minute dash" to describe a hurried effort to complete something right before a deadline. For instance, "There was a "last minute dash" to get the project finished before the end of the day."

What are some alternatives to "last minute dash"?

Alternatives include "final rush", "eleventh-hour attempt", or "frantic scramble". The best choice depends on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is "last minute dash" appropriate for formal writing?

While acceptable, "last minute dash" is generally better suited for informal or neutral contexts. In formal writing, consider using alternatives like "final effort" or "urgent attempt".

What does "last minute dash" imply about the situation?

It implies that the action is being taken with very little time to spare, often due to procrastination or unforeseen circumstances. It suggests a sense of urgency and potential chaos.