Definition

1. Noun:
   • A line indicating the location of the finish of a race: A physical line or marker on a track, road, or course that designates the endpoint of a competitive race. Competitors aim to cross this line first to win.

Usage

• The term "finishing line" is used to specify the exact endpoint in a race. It is a compound noun where "finishing" acts as an adjective describing the type of "line."
• It is commonly used in the context of athletics, horse racing, cycling, and marathons.
• Example:
• Example:

Advanced Usage

• "To cross the finishing line": To complete a race by passing over the designated endpoint.
  • After months of training, she finally crossed the finishing line of her first marathon.
• "In sight of the finishing line": Very close to completing a task or race.
  • The project is in sight of the finishing line; we just need to complete the final report.

Variants and Related Words

• Finish line: A common variant spelling and form of "finishing line." Both terms are interchangeable.
  • He sprinted toward the finish line.
• Tape: In some informal contexts, especially in older races, the "finishing line" was a physical tape stretched across the track.
  • The winner broke the tape at the finishing line.

Synonyms

• Endpoint: The final point of a race or journey.
• Terminus: A final point or goal (more formal, often for transportation).

Related Phrases

• Photo finish: A result of a race where competitors cross the finishing line so close together that a photograph is needed to determine the winner.
  • The race ended in a photo finish at the finishing line.
• Home stretch: The final part of a race track leading to the finishing line.
  • She poured on the speed in the home stretch before the finishing line.

Idioms

• "The finishing line is in sight": Used metaphorically to indicate that a long or difficult task is nearly complete.
  • We've been working on this proposal for a year, and now the finishing line is in sight.

Noun

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