deadline
The final time or date by which something must be completed
Examples
In a meeting
“The deadline for submitting proposals is next Friday at 5 PM.”
Over coffee
“What's the deadline for signing up for the class?”
Why this word
due date
Deadline emphasizes the finality and hard stop of a time constraint, while due date is softer and more administrative
target date
Deadline implies non-negotiable timing, while target date suggests an aim that might have flexibility
timeframe
Deadline is a specific point in time, while timeframe is a range or period
Usage tip
Use to set clear time expectations; creates urgency and accountability
Etymology
American English: dead (absolute) + line (boundary); originally a line in prisons beyond which guards would shoot
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Related words
subsequent
Coming after something in time or order.
perpetual
Never ending or changing; occurring continuously.
defer
To postpone something to a later time, or to yield to someone else's judgment.
tenure
The period of time someone holds a position or office
retroactive
Taking effect from a date in the past rather than from the present
imperative
Absolutely necessary or urgent