near the deadline

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase 'near the deadline' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you need to refer to a specific time that is close to the deadline for completing a task or project. For example, "We need to make sure we finish this project by Friday. We're already near the deadline, so we need to work quickly."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

12 human-written examples

Phillips acquired Kenny Rogers from Oakland last year, and several other starters were traded near the deadline.

The New York Times - Sports

Speaking of the Yankees, I can't remember the last time they didn't make even one small deal at or near the deadline.

The New York Times

There could be some interest in him near the deadline because any team that acquired him would pick up his contract only for the remainder of this season.

The New York Times - Sports

But Zeile has years of experience as a third baseman, and it may be easier to acquire a first baseman near the deadline and simply shift Zeile to third.

The New York Times - Sports

And Mr. Klein of the antitrust division generally does not disclose his decisions on big issues like this, even to some of his colleagues, until sometime near the deadline, officials said.

The New York Times

A budget passed by the Legislature and delivered to Gov. David A. Paterson's desk near the deadline would be a significant victory for the new governor, who has had less than three weeks to broker a budget deal.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

Friedman was nearing the deadline for one of his twice-weekly Times columns — eight hundred and forty words, Wednesdays and Sundays.

The New Yorker

You may find it helpful to include reminders to complete the survey, especially when it nears the deadline.

WikiHow

Lamoriello acquired him from Atlanta near the trade deadline as the key to a long playoff run, but most believed the high salary Kovalchuk can command as a free agent this summer would price him out of New Jersey.

The New York Times - Sports

I expect the defence department and the Treasury to reach an agreement nearer the deadline, probably with the steadying hand of the prime minister helping.

The Guardian - Opinion

But second, the risk of a default starts to increase exponentially as we get nearer to the deadline.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "near the deadline", ensure that the context provides a clear understanding of which specific deadline is being referenced. Avoid ambiguity by specifying the relevant date or event.

Common error

Avoid using "near the deadline" when the action or event actually occurs after the deadline has passed. Clarify whether the event is anticipated before, or occurred after, the cutoff date to prevent misinterpretation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "near the deadline" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying verbs or clauses to indicate the timing of an action or event in relation to a specified deadline. It provides context about when something occurs.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "near the deadline" is a common and grammatically correct way to indicate that something is occurring close to a specific cutoff time. Ludwig AI confirms its usability across various contexts. As an adverbial phrase, it primarily serves to add context about the timing of events, conveying urgency or timeliness. Its neutral tone makes it suitable for both formal and informal communication. While several alternative phrases exist, such as "close to the due date" or "approaching the cutoff", the choice depends on the specific nuance you wish to convey. When using this phrase, it's crucial to ensure the context clearly identifies the specific deadline being referenced to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

close to the due date

Focuses specifically on the 'due date' aspect, emphasizing the date rather than the general concept of a deadline.

approaching the cutoff

Uses 'cutoff' which is a more abrupt term, suggesting a hard stop at the deadline.

as the time limit nears

Emphasizes the 'time limit' and its progression, highlighting the finite nature of the allotted time.

in the final stretch

Idiomatic expression indicating the last part of a task or period before the deadline.

drawing close to the final day

Highlights the 'final day', making it prominent and emphasizing urgency.

in the home stretch

Similar to "in the final stretch", this idiom suggests the task is almost complete.

on the verge of the closing date

Expresses being very close to the closing date; suitable for formal contexts.

at the eleventh hour

An idiom meaning at the last possible moment before a deadline.

down to the wire

Implies that something will be decided or completed just before the deadline.

in the shadow of the deadline

Uses metaphorical language to suggest the deadline is looming large and influencing actions.

FAQs

How can I use "near the deadline" in a sentence?

You can use "near the deadline" to indicate that something is happening or needs to happen close to a specific cutoff date. For example, "We need to finalize the report as we are "near the deadline"."

What is a formal alternative to "near the deadline"?

In more formal contexts, consider using phrases such as "approaching the cutoff" or "drawing close to the final day" to convey a similar meaning.

Is it correct to say "nearing the deadline" instead of "near the deadline"?

Yes, "nearing the deadline" is also correct and implies a process of getting closer to the deadline. The phrase "near the deadline" simply indicates proximity.

What's the difference between "before the deadline" and "near the deadline"?

"Before the deadline" indicates any time prior to the cutoff, while "near the deadline" specifies a time very close to it. The first is less specific than the second.