A close-run thing

usgb
noun

A situation or contest which is almost evenly matched with no clear winner until the very end.

The election was a close-run thing, but in the end, the incumbent was able to retain his seat.
Visual representation of "a close-run thing" - A situation or contest which is almost evenly matched with no clear winner until the very end.

Often appears as...

  • the game was a close-run thing
  • it's going to be a close-run thing
Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "a close-run thing"
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Intensity Emphasis

Use it to convey the emotional intensity of a highly competitive situation.

Illustration for Intensity Emphasis
The spelling bee was a close-run thing, with tension in the air until the final word.
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Sports Appropriate

Often used in sports to describe matches where the outcome is uncertain until the end.

Illustration for Sports Appropriate
Yesterday's match was a close-run thing; either team could've won.
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Outcome Uncertainty

Highlights that the result was not easily predicted, enhancing the suspense.

Illustration for Outcome Uncertainty
After a tough qualification process, her admission was a close-run thing.
Visual representation of the word "A close-run thing"

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