"Under the wire" is an idiomatic expression that originated from American horse racing parlance. It refers to a situation wherein someone or something accomplishes or arrives at something just in the final moments or at the last possible minute. The phrase comes from the use of a wire stretched across the finish line in horse racing, which the horse's nose must pass under to be considered the winner.
In a broader context, "under the wire" is often used metaphorically to describe situations where the completion, achievement, or submission of a task, goal, or obligation occurs with little or no time to spare. It implies a sense of urgency and pressure, suggesting that the outcome was uncertain until the very end.
This expression is commonly used in various contexts, such as in sports, business, academics, or everyday life situations. For example, a student might say, "I finished my final exam just under the wire," indicating that they completed it right before the time limit expired, while a colleague may express relief by saying, "I prepared the report under the wire," implying they managed to finish it at the very last moment.
Overall, "under the wire" denotes achieving or reaching a goal, deadline, or outcome in the nick of time, often with a sense of thrill or tension associated with narrowly avoiding a failure or missing an opportunity.
