Deadline - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
A deadline is a fixed time or date by which a task must be completed. It is commonly used in work, school, or projects to ensure timely progress and accountability.
Definition:
The latest time by which something must be completed or submitted.
Synonyms:
cutoff, due date, time limit, target date
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
extension, indefinite period
Common Collocations:
meet a deadline, set a deadline, miss a deadline, tight deadline, extend a deadline
Derivatives:
deadlines (plural), deadlined (rare)
Usage Tips:
Use "deadline" for fixed completion times in work or study; avoid for informal or flexible timelines.
Common Phrases:
race against the deadline, beat the deadline, under the wire
Etymology:
Originated from Civil War prisons; literal "dead line" prisoners couldn't cross without being shot.
Examples:
- 1. The project deadline is tomorrow at noon.
- 2. She missed the application deadline by one day.
- 3. Our team works best under tight deadlines.
- 4. Can we extend the deadline by two weeks?