the final stretch

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the final stretch" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to the last part of a journey, task, or process, often implying that the end is near. Example: "As we enter the final stretch of the project, we need to ensure that all deadlines are met."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

The final stretch.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

But the final stretch is the hardest.

The Economist

The final stretch is simply staggering.

The Guardian - Music

And so the final stretch to Washington.

The Guardian

As he spoke, candidates were preparing for the final stretch.

The New York Times

What has this race come to in the final stretch?

The New York Times

But he was unable to go the final stretch.

The New York Times

But, somehow, we rouse ourselves for the final stretch.

The Guardian

The book is actually hugely affecting – until the final stretch.

The Guardian - Books

Strong work as he hits the final stretch.

The Guardian - Sport

So they swing into the final stretch, locked dead level.

The Guardian - Film

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the final stretch" to create a sense of urgency or anticipation, especially when referring to projects, campaigns, or personal goals. It effectively communicates that the end is near and encourages a final push.

Common error

Avoid using "the final stretch" when referring to a middle or early phase of a process. It should only be used when the end is genuinely near to maintain its impact and avoid confusing your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the final stretch" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often acting as a subject complement or object of a preposition. Ludwig examples confirm its role in describing the last portion of a process or journey. The phrase adds emphasis on the nearing end of a particular endeavor.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

65%

Science

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Encyclopedias

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the final stretch" is a commonly used noun phrase that signifies the concluding part of a process or journey. According to Ludwig, it's grammatically correct and versatile enough for both formal and informal contexts. The phrase is particularly prevalent in news and media, where it conveys a sense of nearing completion and urgency. For alternative phrasing, consider options like "the home stretch" or "the last leg". Remember to use it judiciously, ensuring that the context genuinely reflects the nearing end to maintain its intended impact.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

the home stretch

This alternative is an idiom synonymous with "the final stretch", often used in racing contexts but applicable more broadly.

the last leg

This phrase emphasizes the concluding portion of a journey or project.

the end game

This alternative highlights the concluding phase where the ultimate objective is achieved.

the concluding phase

This phrase is a more formal way of referring to the final stage of a process.

the run-in

Common in sports, this refers to the final period of a competition.

the finishing straight

This alternative is borrowed from track racing and denotes the ultimate part of a contest.

the final countdown

This phrase highlights the period immediately before the end of a significant event.

the last phase

This alternative simply indicates the terminal stage in a multi-part process.

the terminal stage

A more formal alternative, indicating the end or conclusion of something.

the critical phase

This alternative emphasizes the importance of the final period.

FAQs

How can I use "the final stretch" in a sentence?

You can use "the final stretch" to refer to the concluding part of a process. For example: "We are in "the final stretch" of the project, so let's focus on meeting all the deadlines."

What are some alternatives to "the final stretch"?

You can use alternatives such as "the home stretch", "the last leg", or "the end game" depending on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "the final stretch" in formal writing?

Yes, "the final stretch" is appropriate in formal writing, particularly when you want to convey a sense of nearing completion or a decisive phase. However, in particularly formal contexts, consider using alternatives like "the concluding phase".

What's the difference between "the final stretch" and "the last mile"?

While both phrases refer to the end of a process, "the final stretch" generally indicates the entire concluding phase, whereas "the last mile" often emphasizes the most difficult or challenging part right before the end.