last-minute

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "last-minute" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe something that is done at the last possible moment or very close to a deadline. Example: "I always seem to finish my projects at the last-minute, which adds unnecessary stress."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 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

There have been other last-minute distractions.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

In the last minute.

The New York Times

How last minute?

The New York Times - Arts

"At the very last minute.

Independent

This is the last minute.

Independent

IT'S the absolute last minute.

The New York Times - Food

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "last-minute" to describe actions, ensure the context clearly indicates the urgency or the lack of prior planning. For instance, "He made a "last-minute" decision to attend the meeting" effectively conveys the spontaneity.

Common error

Avoid using "last-minute" when the situation doesn't truly involve a critical time constraint. Describing a well-planned event as a "last-minute" arrangement can be misleading and undermine your message.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last-minute" primarily functions as an adjective, modifying nouns to indicate that something is done, arranged, or happens very close to a deadline or at the latest possible time. Ludwig confirms this with examples like "last-minute ideas" and "last-minute preparations".

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

12%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "last-minute" is a commonly used adjective that describes events or actions occurring very close to a deadline. Ludwig AI analysis affirms its grammatical correctness and suitability across various contexts. As an adjective, it conveys a sense of urgency or lack of prior planning. While versatile, remember to use it appropriately to accurately reflect the timing and planning (or lack thereof) of the situation. Consider alternatives like "eleventh-hour" or "at the last moment" for nuanced expression. The phrase is found mostly in News & Media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

eleventh-hour

Uses a different adjective to describe something happening at the latest possible time.

at the last moment

Rephrases "minute" with "moment", focusing on the timing.

in the nick of time

An idiomatic expression indicating something happening just before it's too late.

just in time

A more straightforward way of saying something happened with no time to spare.

at the eleventh hour

Similar to "eleventh-hour", but uses a prepositional phrase.

at the very end

Focuses on the temporal aspect of something happening near the conclusion.

with little time to spare

Highlights the lack of available time before something needs to be done.

short notice

Emphasizes the lack of advance warning or planning.

final hour

Replaces "minute" with "hour", suggesting a slightly longer timeframe but still close to the deadline.

last second

Replaces "minute" with "second" to emphasize the urgency.

FAQs

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

You can use "last-minute" to describe something that happens just before a deadline or at the latest possible time. For example, "I made a "last-minute" reservation" or "They offered a "last-minute" deal".

What are some alternatives to "last-minute"?

Alternatives include "eleventh-hour", "at the last moment", or "just in time" depending on the context.

Is it better to plan ahead or rely on "last-minute" arrangements?

While "last-minute" arrangements can sometimes offer benefits like discounted prices, they often come with increased stress and limited options. Planning ahead is generally preferable for important events or decisions.

What's the difference between "last-minute" and "short notice"?

"Last-minute" emphasizes the proximity to a deadline, while "short notice" focuses on the lack of advance warning. "Last-minute" implies urgency, whereas "short notice" highlights the limited time available to prepare.