Which is correct:
"before the deadline" or "on the deadline"?

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before the deadline

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to actions happening prior to the deadline.

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or needs to be completed prior to the specified deadline.

Examples:

  • Please submit your report before the deadline.
  • I always try to finish my work before the deadline.
  • Make sure to complete the assignment before the deadline.
  • The package should arrive before the deadline.
  • We need to finalize the details before the deadline.

Alternatives:

  • prior to the deadline
  • ahead of the deadline
  • in advance of the deadline
  • by the deadline
  • earlier than the deadline

on the deadline

This phrase is correct and commonly used in English to refer to actions happening exactly at the deadline.

This phrase is used to indicate that something will happen or needs to be completed exactly at the specified deadline.

Examples:

  • The project must be submitted on the deadline.
  • Payments are due on the deadline.
  • The application should be completed on the deadline.
  • The event will take place on the deadline.
  • You can make changes to your order on the deadline.

Alternatives:

  • at the deadline
  • by the deadline
  • just in time for the deadline
  • right on the deadline
  • exactly at the deadline
Both 'before the deadline' and 'on the deadline' are correct, but they convey different meanings. 'Before the deadline' means prior to the deadline, while 'on the deadline' means exactly at the deadline. The choice between the two depends on whether you want to refer to an action happening prior to or at the deadline.

Last updated: March 23, 2024

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