Definition

Noun: A line that marks the end point of a race course. It is the final boundary that competitors must cross to complete the race.

Usage

The term "finish line" is used to specify the exact location where a race concludes. It is a physical or marked line that competitors aim to reach. - The runners sprinted with all their might toward the finish line. - A tape was stretched across the finish line for the winner to break.

Advanced Usage

• "to cross the finish line": To complete a race or, metaphorically, to complete any long and challenging task.
  • After months of hard work, the team finally crossed the finish line on the project.
• "in sight of the finish line": Very close to completing a goal.
  • With the election a week away, both candidates are in sight of the finish line.

Variants and Related Words

• Finishing line: A less common but synonymous variant, primarily used in British English.
  • The crowd cheered as the cyclists approached the finishing line.

Synonyms

• Tape: Specifically refers to the ribbon stretched across the finish line for the winner to break.
• Endpoint: A more general term for the final point of a course or activity.

Related Phrases

• Photo finish: A result so close that a photograph of the finish line is needed to determine the winner.
  • The race ended in a photo finish at the finish line.
• Down to the wire: A phrase meaning a competition is undecided until the very end, often until the finish line is crossed.
  • The championship was decided down to the wire at the final finish line.

Noun

1. a line indicating the location of the finish of a race