When we say something will be done "by the end of the day," we mean that it will be completed before the day is over, typically within working hours. This phrase often indicates the latest possible deadline for a task, project, or objective.
In short:
The idiom "by the end of the day" denotes that a task or action will be accomplished before the close of business hours on the same day.
"By the end of the day," in its broadest sense, indicates the conclusion of the current day as the deadline for the completion of a task. People use this phrase to establish an expected timeframe, especially in work-related contexts.
The phrase "by the end of the day" is first recorded in the early 1800s. However, it is likely that the idiom is much older. The idea of time being limited has been around for centuries.
"The Foreign Minister repeated the hope that by the end of the day they would have the decision in principle."
- Foreign Relations of the United States, 1955
To better understand the idiom's usage, let's look at its use in various contexts:
From movies to books, the phrase "by the end of the day" often appears in popular culture, reflecting its widespread use in modern language:
There are several phrases that can be used as alternatives to "by the end of the day," depending on the context:
Each of these alternatives offers a slightly different nuance, so choose the one that fits your context best.
The phrase "by the end of the day" typically refers to something being completed before the close of business hours or before the day is over.
The idiom has been in use at least since the 18th century, with a common association with the end of the business or working day. Its use likely became more widespread during the industrial revolution, as work hours became more structured.
Yes, "by the end of the day" can be used metaphorically to summarize a point of view or a concluding thought, as in, "By the end of the day, it's all about being happy."
The phrase "by the end of the day" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, in highly formal or technical writing, more specific deadlines may be preferred.
Alternatives include phrases such as "before the day is out," "before close of business," or "by close of play," depending on the context.
The phrase is widely used in English-speaking countries around the world and is not specific to American English.
The exact time is typically dependent on the context. In a business setting, it usually means by close of business hours. In a broader context, it can mean before the day is over.
Yes, when used as a deadline, "by the end of the day" can express a sense of urgency, as tasks or activities need to be completed within a limited timeframe.
No, while they sound similar, "by the end of the day" generally refers to a deadline within a day, while "at the end of the day" is often used to summarize or conclude an argument or situation.
Yes, "by the end of the day" can literally refer to the end of a 24-hour day, often used to set a specific deadline.
"By the end of the day" is a versatile phrase that adds specificity and urgency to our language, allowing us to set clear expectations and deadlines.
Understanding this phrase not only enhances our understanding of the English language but also enables us to convey time-specific requirements in a clear and concise manner.
