English idiom

crunch time

Register · Informal CEFR B2

Post

Figurative meaning

the final, high-pressure period before a deadline

Why this phrase?

From sports: the decisive moments at the end of a close game.

Example

“It's crunch time for the launch — expect late nights.”

Dictionary details

Component words

crunch time

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

race against time

a desperate hurry to finish before a deadline

in the nick of time

at the latest moment when success is still possible

play for time

to delay deliberately in order to prepare or avoid an immediate outcome

stand the test of time

to remain effective, admired, or valuable over a long period

pull an all-nighter

to stay up and work through the entire night

back against the wall

in a desperate situation with few options left

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

External links

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