last-gasp

noun

1. (modifier) done in desperation at the last minute

   a last-gasp attempt to save the talks

Idioms and Phrases

The moment before death; also, the end. For example, “Fight till the last gasp” (Shakespeare, 1 Henry VI, 1:2), or He was determined to stay at the party until the last gasp. This idiom alludes to taking one's last breath, literally (first example) or figuratively (second example). [Late 1500s]

Example Sentences

Replacement lock Jimi Maximin scored a last-gasp try to give surprise leaders Pau a thrilling 30-26 victory over champions Toulouse on Saturday.

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Despite a late last-gasp effort from Djokovic, Vacherot held serve and his nerve to seal victory.

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The Dane appeared to be struggling physically by the end, and despite his last-gasp efforts, Vacherot held to secure an unlikely victory, falling to his knees in disbelief.

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Bournemouth, Newcastle United, Arsenal, Burnley and Atletico Madrid all fell to last-gasp blows – but it was a high-risk unsustainable strategy, especially with Liverpool so far from their best.

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The announcement of Saliba's new deal comes following a last-gasp win at Newcastle United on Sunday which moved the Gunners second in the Premier League and just two points behind leaders Liverpool.

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Related Words

• do-or-die 
• frantic 
• last-gasp