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By the skin of your teeth

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Metaphorical Meaning

The phrase is not literal; it emphasizes a very close or narrow escape or success.

Illustration for Metaphorical Meaning
He avoided the accident by the skin of his teeth.
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High Drama

Use it to describe situations with high tension or last-minute success.

Illustration for High Drama
She caught the train by the skin of her teeth.
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Not for Precision

It's inappropriate in formal or academic contexts where precision is needed.

Illustration for Not for Precision
He completed the project by the skin of his teeth.
Visual representation of the word "By the skin of your teeth"

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