be nip and tuck

be nip and tuck

slang To have a very close margin between the competitors in a contest or competition. This race has been nip and tuck, and we won't know who has won until the final vote is counted.
See also: and, nip, tuck
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • nip
  • tuck
  • nip and tuck
  • off the pace
  • nip in the air
  • open up a/(one's) lead
  • neck and neck
  • take second place
  • anyone's/anybody's call
  • bragging rights
References in classic literature
Even as it was, it would be nip and tuck as to who came first to her side.
Thuvia Maid of Mars
JOE SAYS: Both of these sides were unlucky to get nothing from their opening fixtures and this could be nip and tuck all the way.
Tottenham v Stoke; BOOKIES vs BETTING BOYS; William Hill's Joe Crilly gives his verdict on the weekend's big games, but those fabulous Betting Boys are looking to take him on..and take his money.
"It's going to be nip and tuck, and could come down to pressure and experience," Graham said.
Graham: It's still all to play for yet; Dukes North East Premier League
"We still have a game in hand over Dunfermline but it is going to be nip and tuck at the bottom right till the end.
Football: mailsport premier league - Yogi: We're in with a chance
"It will be nip and tuck, and we will have to take our chances when they come.
A COL TO ARMS FOR CRUES