Definition of Deadline
Quick Meaning of Deadline
The last day or time you have to finish something. If you miss it, you're late.
Detailed Definition of Deadline
The latest time or date by which something must be completed or submitted; a final limit or end date.
How to Pronounce Deadline
Stress pattern: Oo (2-syllable word).
Tip: DEAD-line. Stress the first syllable strongly. The 'a' in 'dead' rhymes with 'bed'. The second syllable is unstressed and quick.
Watch out: Some learners say 'DEE-dline' or stress both syllables equally. Always stress DEAD strongly and keep 'line' quick and soft.
Origin and Etymology of Deadline
Compound word: 'dead' (absolute, final) + 'line' (a boundary). Originally a military term referring to a line soldiers could not cross; later applied to time limits. Entered general English usage by the 1880s in journalism.
How to Use Deadline in a Sentence
Each example shows “deadline” with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
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“The deadline for submitting your application is next Friday at 5 PM.”
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“We need to meet the project deadline before the client meeting.”
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“The deadline for paying your rent is the first of the month.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Deadline
Common Synonyms for Deadline
Smart Synonyms for Deadline — When to Use Each
- due date
- More formal; commonly used in official documents
- cutoff date
- Emphasizes the sharp boundary; no extensions allowed
- time limit
- More general term; applies to any timed constraint
Common Collocations with Deadline
These phrases pair with “deadline” in everyday English:
- meet a deadline
- miss a deadline
- set a deadline
- extend a deadline
- tight deadline
Common Mistakes When Using Deadline
Even fluent speakers slip up with “deadline”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The deadline are tomorrow.
- ✓ Correct: The deadline is tomorrow.
- Why: Deadline is a singular noun; use 'is' not 'are'.
- ✗ Wrong: I missed the deadline of submitting the report.
- ✓ Correct: I missed the deadline for submitting the report.
- Why: Use 'deadline FOR + verb-ing' not 'of'.
- ✗ Wrong: We need to respect the deadline to time.
- ✓ Correct: We need to meet the deadline on time.
- Why: Collocate 'meet a deadline' not 'respect the deadline to time'.
Other Forms of Deadline
- Noun: deadline
Frequently Asked Questions About Deadline
What is the meaning of "Deadline"?
The last day or time you have to finish something. If you miss it, you're late.
How do you pronounce "Deadline"?
The IPA is /ˈdedˌlaɪn/. DEAD-line. Stress the first syllable strongly. The 'a' in 'dead' rhymes with 'bed'. The second syllable is unstressed and quick.
What part of speech is "Deadline"?
"Deadline" is a noun at B1 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Deadline"?
Common synonyms include due date, time limit, cutoff date.
How do you use "Deadline" in a sentence?
For example: "The deadline for submitting your application is next Friday at 5 PM."