nip and tuck

Etymology

Definitions

1. 1

   So evenly matched that the advantage shifts from one to the other, and the outcome is…

   So evenly matched that the advantage shifts from one to the other, and the outcome is uncertain.

   • It was nip and tuck with me between holding on to my stock and being sold out; but by great industry and prudence I managed to keep a little ahead and my mouth above water.
   • Bang! One saddle empty. Bang! another one. Bang—bang, and I bagged two. Well, it was nip and tuck with us, and I knew it.
   • We broke away toward the north, the tribe howling on our track. Across the open spaces we gained, and in the brush they caught up with us, and more than once it was nip and tuck.
2. 2

   With the advantage of changing hands, or shifting back and forth among the available…

   With the advantage of changing hands, or shifting back and forth among the available alternatives.

   • A man told me that they was both admitted to practice in the S'preme Court in '39, on the same day, sir. Then you know they was nip an' tuck after the same young lady.
   • "I am glad I happened to reach him," he said, in an effort to relieve her embarrassment. "We had it nip and tuck," he added, lightly. "My lungs are lined with dust."
   • Obama's road to the White House was far from assured during the 2008 primary season when he ran nip and tuck with McCain in early Gallup Poll trial heats for the general election.
3. 3

   Minor cosmetic surgery that tightens loose skin.

   • I watch the show where Paris Hilton and Nikki Ritchie^([sic]) live the simple life. […] It's makeovers, nip and tucks, and shopping sprees.

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