Neck and neck Meaning in English
expression
Definition
Used to describe a situation where two or more competitors are so close in performance that it's almost impossible to see who is winning, especially in a race or competition.
Usage & Nuances
Informal, often used for sports, polls, elections, or any close competition. Typically appears as 'neck and neck' with no article (never 'a neck and neck'). Can follow verbs like 'are', 'remain', or 'run'. Not used to describe non-competitive contexts.
Example Sentences
The two runners were neck and neck at the finish line.
basic
The election results are neck and neck right now.
basic
The two teams remained neck and neck all game.
basic
Wow, this race is neck and neck—I can't tell who's ahead!
natural
After hours of debating, the votes were still neck and neck.
natural
Their scores have been neck and neck the whole season.
natural