Within an inch of your life Meaning in English
expression
Definition
This means almost being killed or hurt very seriously, usually used to describe a situation where someone is beaten or attacked severely.
Usage & Nuances
This is an idiomatic, dramatic expression for near-fatal harm. Most often used with 'beat' ('beaten within an inch of your life'), but can apply to any severe danger. It is not literal; rarely used to describe actual fatal situations. Generally found in dramatic storytelling or news.
Example Sentences
He was beaten within an inch of his life.
basic
She escaped the fire within an inch of her life.
basic
The hero fought within an inch of his life.
basic
When I saw the car crash, it looked like he survived within an inch of his life.
natural
The boxer was punched within an inch of his life during the match.
natural
You scared me within an inch of my life when you jumped out suddenly!
natural