deadline

word

/ˈdɛdˌɫaɪn/
DED-lyne
/dˈɛdlaɪn/
DED-lyne

Definition

A deadline is the latest time or date by which something must be finished or submitted. If you miss it, there may be a problem, delay, or penalty.

Usage & Nuances

Very common in work, school, and business. Typical phrases are 'meet a deadline', 'miss a deadline', 'tight deadline', and 'extend the deadline'. It usually refers to a fixed limit, while 'schedule' is a general plan of times.

Example Sentences

The deadline is Friday afternoon.

basic

Can we push the deadline back by a couple of days?

natural

We finished the project before the deadline.

basic

I missed the deadline for my application.

basic

We're under a tight deadline, so let's keep this meeting short.

natural

I always leave things until the last minute, and then the deadline stresses me out.

natural