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Definitions

neck and neck

ADJECTIVE
close
Synonyms
WEAK
circumscribed close-grained compact confined confining congested consolidated cropped crowded firm impenetrable impermeable jam-packed narrow nip and tuck packed restricted short solid substantial thick tight
neck-and-neck
ADJECTIVE
very close
Synonyms
WEAK
close deadlocked drawn needle nip and tuck tied too close to call

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.

“The Lakers and Dodgers are going to be neck and neck very soon,” Rosen said.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 15, 2026

In Berlin, it is neck and neck with the SPD and the Greens ahead of a state election in September.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 11, 2026

Paxton’s style ran neck and neck with Cornyn’s substance.

From Salon • Mar. 4, 2026

Going into the final round, the Japanese and the Americans had been neck and neck, but Japan were ahead having won more routines.

From Barron's • Feb. 8, 2026

Then they’re neck and neck, and the finish line is right in front of them.

From "A Good Kind of Trouble" by Lisa Moore Ramée