cut it fine
To have a very narrow margin for error or deviation. Having only $20 in your bank account is cutting it fine, if you ask me. I know we cut it fine, but at least we managed to make it here before the movie started. Don't cut it fine—print more than 50 programs, just in case.
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.
cut it fine
Do something closely with a very slight margin, as in Tom always cut it fine, arriving at the last minute. This term uses fine in the sense of "narrow." [Late 1800s]
The American Heritage® Dictionary of Idioms by Christine Ammer. Copyright © 2003, 1997 by The Christine Ammer 1992 Trust. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.
cut it (or things) fine
allow a very small margin of something, usually time.Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017
cut it/things ˈfine
allow only just enough time to do something: Your train leaves in twenty minutes and you’re still here! You’re cutting it a bit fine, aren’t you?Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017