Meaning & Definition of word "Deadline"

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    Deadline

    /ˈdɛdˌlaɪn/

    noun:

    • 1. A point in time by which something must be completed or submitted.
      • Example: The deadline for submitting the project proposal is next Friday.
    • 2. A date or time by which a task must be finished.
      • Example: We have a strict deadline to finish the report before the meeting.
    • 3. The final date by which something must be done, especially in a professional context.
      • Example: She was stressed about the deadline for the grant application.
    • 4. The last moment allowed for submitting or completing something.
      • Example: He worked late into the night to meet the deadline.

    Etymology

    First known use in the early 20th century, originally referring to a line drawn around a prison beyond which a prisoner could not pass.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    miss a deadline:

    To fail to submit something by the required time.

    meet a deadline:

    To complete something within the required time frame.

    hard deadline:

    A non-negotiable time limit.

    soft deadline:

    A time limit that allows for some flexibility.

    Related Words

    time management:

    The process of organizing and planning how to divide your time between different activities.

    task:

    A piece of work to be done or undertaken.

    project:

    An individual or collaborative enterprise that is carefully planned to achieve a particular aim.

    Slang Meanings of deadline

    Meaning: Crunch time

    Example Sentence: When the deadline approaches and everyone is working hard to finish.

    Meaning: Deadline pressure

    Example Sentence: The feeling of stress caused by having to meet a deadline.