last-gasp

noun

1. (modifier) done in desperation at the last minute

   a last-gasp attempt to save the talks

Idioms and Phrases

The moment before death; also, the end. For example, “Fight till the last gasp” (Shakespeare, 1 Henry VI, 1:2), or He was determined to stay at the party until the last gasp. This idiom alludes to taking one's last breath, literally (first example) or figuratively (second example). [Late 1500s]

Example Sentences

Despite a late last-gasp effort from Djokovic, Vacherot held serve and his nerve to seal victory.

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The Dane appeared to be struggling physically by the end, and despite his last-gasp efforts, Vacherot held to secure an unlikely victory, falling to his knees in disbelief.

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Bournemouth, Newcastle United, Arsenal, Burnley and Atletico Madrid all fell to last-gasp blows – but it was a high-risk unsustainable strategy, especially with Liverpool so far from their best.

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The announcement of Saliba's new deal comes following a last-gasp win at Newcastle United on Sunday which moved the Gunners second in the Premier League and just two points behind leaders Liverpool.

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A last-gasp Bournemouth equaliser on Saturday may have been painful for the Elland Road faithful but the performance of Sean Longstaff gives Daniel Farke and co much hope for the rest of the season.

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Related Words

• do-or-die 
• frantic 
• last-gasp