A close thing

usgb
noun

An event or outcome that nearly did not happen or was not certain.

The election was a close thing, but he managed to win.
Visual representation of "a close thing" - An event or outcome that nearly did not happen or was not certain.

Often appears as...

  • it was a close thing
  • a close thing but
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a close thing"
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Outcome Uncertainty

Use when an outcome was uncertain until the very end, and it suggests a feeling of relief or surprise at the result.

Illustration for Outcome Uncertainty
After the final whistle, fans sighed in relief; the game had been a close thing.
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Tense Situation

Implies a tense or stressful situation where the outcome could have easily been different.

Illustration for Tense Situation
Surviving the car accident was a close thing; a second later and it would've been worse.
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Dramatic Effect

Can be used to describe dramatic situations in storytelling, adding excitement to the narrative.

Illustration for Dramatic Effect
The hero disarmed the bomb at 1 second left—it was a close thing.
Visual representation of the word "A close thing"

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