by inches
Definition
Adverb 1. By a very small distance or margin; gradually and narrowly: This phrase describes an action or event that happens or is achieved with only a tiny amount of space or degree to spare. It emphasizes a slow, incremental, or extremely close progression.
Usage
The phrase "by inches" is used to modify a verb, describing how an action was completed. It highlights a result that was nearly not achieved or a process that was painstakingly slow and close.
Examples
- The car missed the pedestrian by inches. (The distance between the car and the pedestrian was extremely small.)
- He escaped the falling debris by inches. (He was almost hit; the space between him and the debris was minimal.)
- The team won the championship by inches, with a last-second goal. (The victory margin was extremely narrow.)
- The climber inched his way up the cliff face, progressing by inches. (He moved forward very slowly and gradually.)
Advanced Usage
- Figurative Use: It can be used figuratively to describe a narrow escape from a non-physical threat or a very close outcome.
- She passed the difficult exam by inches. (Her score was just above the passing grade.)
- The bill was defeated in parliament by inches. (The vote was very close.)
Variants and Related Words
- Inch by inch (Adverbial phrase): An even stronger emphasis on slow, gradual, and meticulous progress.
- We cleared the rubble from the site, inch by inch.
- Within an inch of (one's life) (Idiom): To an extreme degree, often referring to a severe beating or fright.
- The old tree was stripped bare by the storm, within an inch of its life.
Synonyms
- By a hair's breadth
- By a narrow margin
- Just barely
- Narrowly
- Closely
Antonyms
- By a mile
- By a wide margin
- Easily
- Comfortably
Related Idioms
- Give someone an inch and they'll take a mile: A warning that if you concede a small amount to someone, they will take much more.
- Every inch a (something): Completely and in every way.
- He is every inch a professional.
Adverb
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by a short distance
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they moved it by inches
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