Useful English Word or Phrase to Boost Your English: Down to the Wire

What does it mean?

Down to the wire means a decision, event, or competition continues until the very last possible moment before the result is known.

Is it positive or negative?

Neutral — it expresses suspense and last-minute uncertainty.

When do you use it?

Use it when describing tight deadlines, close competitions, or long negotiations.

Examples

Example 1: “The election went down to the wire — nobody knew the winner until midnight.”

Example 2: “The contract negotiations went down to the wire on Friday afternoon.”

Question for you

Can you think of a situation in your life that went down to the wire?

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