As a language expert with a deep understanding of idiomatic expressions, I can provide you with the meaning of the phrase "down the wire."

The phrase "down the wire" is an idiom that typically refers to a situation where the outcome is decided or determined at the very end or very close to the end of a process or event. It is often used to describe a close contest or competition that is not resolved until the last moment. The term originates from horse racing, where a wire was used to determine the order of finish for horses that were very close to each other at the finish line.

Here's the phrase with the key term highlighted: down the wire.

read more >>

down to the wire (not comparable) (idiomatic) At the very end of a process or project, especially one with a fast-approaching deadline. He was almost done with the paper, but tomorrow's due date meant it would be down to the wire.read more >>