Down to the wire Meaning in English
expression
Definition
This expression means that something is not decided until the very last possible moment, often used for competitions or situations that remain uncertain until the end.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and idiomatic. Often refers to competitions, deadlines, or situations decided at the last moment. Used in both sports and general contexts. Not used for physical wires; don't translate literally. Synonymous with 'until the last minute.'
Example Sentences
The football game went down to the wire.
basic
The election result was down to the wire.
basic
We worked down to the wire to finish the project.
basic
It was a close match; it came down to the wire.
natural
The negotiations went down to the wire before they reached an agreement.
natural
Everything stayed uncertain right down to the wire.
natural