At death’s door

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

The phrase is not always literal, can imply someone is extremely weak or exhausted.

After running the marathon, he felt like he was at death's door.

Pro Tip 2/3

The phrase carries heavy emotional connotations, use with sensitivity to others' feelings.

I avoided saying she was at death's door to not upset her family.

Pro Tip 3/3

It can be used dramatically to emphasize dire situations, not just concerning health.

After the company's huge loss, it was at death's door financially.

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