by a whisker

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Reform won the first one in Runcorn and Helsby in Cheshire last May, beating Labour by a whisker.

From BBC • Feb. 26, 2026

With a runner on second and none out in the second inning, second baseman Edman knocked down a hot smash from Mickey Moniak, scooped up the ball and threw him out by a whisker.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 16, 2025

Celtic won, by a whisker or by a mile, it doesn't really matter.

From BBC • Dec. 15, 2024

Allen finished third by a whisker in 13.09, which sent him to the world championships.

From Washington Post • Jun. 26, 2022

Sirius IV got in first by a whisker, it seems, but Aldebaran II was so close a second that it was a photo finish, and all the channels have been jammed ever since.

From The Vortex Blaster by Smith, E. E. (Edward Elmer)