nip and tuck
English
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Alternative forms
Pronunciation
Audio (AU): (file)
Adjective
nip and tuck (comparative more nip and tuck, superlative most nip and tuck)
- (idiomatic) So evenly matched that the advantage shifts from one to the other, and the outcome is uncertain.
- 1867, C.H. Webb, My Mexican Mines, at Harper's Magazine, page 461
- It was nip and tuck with me between holding on to my stock and being sold out; but by great industry and prudence I managed to keep a little ahead and my mouth above water.
- 1906, Jack London, Before Adam, chapter 12
- We broke away toward the north, the tribe howling on our track. Across the open spaces we gained, and in the brush they caught up with us, and more than once it was nip and tuck.
- 1951, Howdy Doody's Christmas
- Well, it was nip and tuck, but everything worked out fine. Santa Claus got there in time to bring toys to all the boys and girls.
- 1867, C.H. Webb, My Mexican Mines, at Harper's Magazine, page 461
See also
Adverb
nip and tuck (comparative more nip and tuck, superlative most nip and tuck)
- With the advantage changing hands, or shifting back and forth among the available alternatives.
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Translations
evenly matched with vacillating advantage
Noun
nip and tuck (plural nip and tucks or nips and tucks)
- Minor cosmetic surgery that tightens loose skin.
Synonyms
Translations
skin-tightening cosmetic surgery
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