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begin to see daylight

Idioms  
  1. Realize that a task is finally nearing completion, that success or the right solution is near at hand. For example, I've been working on this experiment for two years and I'm finally beginning to see daylight. The noun daylight has been a metaphor for knowledge and solution since the late 1600s. Also see light at the end of the tunnel; see the light.


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.

Ha!" said the old woman, laughing and rubbing her hands together; "you begin to see daylight, do you?

From Roughing It in the Bush by Moodie, Susanna

However, like Sindbad the Sailor in the cavern, I begin to see daylight.

From The Atlantic Monthly, Volume 15, No. 89, March, 1865 by Various

Now I begin to see daylight everywhere; the meaning of the things which puzzled me.

From Miss Arnott's Marriage by Marsh, Richard

If you can't guess now," smiled young Prescott, his eyes gleaming, "you'll soon begin to see daylight through my plan!

From The High School Boys' Fishing Trip by Hancock, H. Irving (Harrie Irving)

"Why, once you begin to see daylight in calculus it's just as easy as taking a nap," declared the first classman.

From Dave Darrin's Second Year at Annapolis Or, Two Midshipmen as Naval Academy "Youngsters" by Hancock, H. Irving (Harrie Irving)

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