THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Neck and neck
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
Level or very close in a competition, with neither competitor clearly ahead.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- The two runners were neck and neck as they approached the finish.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
The two runners were ________ as they approached the finish.
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Neck and neck — Level or very close in a competition, with neither competitor clearly ahead.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Neck and neck” about your own life.
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Does your sentence match this meaning?
Level or very close in a competition, with neither competitor clearly ahead.
Compare: The two runners were neck and neck as they approached the finish.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it for a close race, contest or comparison of competitors. It suits everyday conversation and general reporting.
More examples in context
- Our quiz teams are neck and neck after the third round.
- The two designs remained neck and neck in the members’ vote.
Usage note
Before a noun, use hyphens: “a neck-and-neck contest.” It describes a close position during a contest, not necessarily a final tie.
A short conversation
A: Which team is winning?
B: They are neck and neck with one round left.
A: The final question could decide it.
One more practice question
Two teams are neck and neck. What is true?
A. One team is far ahead with no realistic challenge.
B. They are level or very close, with no clear leader.
Check your answer
B. The contest is closely balanced at that point.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.