Meaning & Definition of word "Deadline"

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.