5vor12

5vor12 (pronounced "fünf for tsvölf") is a German idiom that translates literally to "five before twelve." It is analogous to the English phrase "the eleventh hour" or "down to the wire."

Meaning: The idiom signifies a situation where time is running out and the deadline is very close. It describes a critical, last-minute state where immediate action is needed to avert a negative outcome or achieve a desired result. It conveys a sense of urgency and potential crisis.

Usage: The phrase is used in everyday conversation and writing to emphasize the imminence of a deadline or a pivotal moment. It implies that intervention or action is required almost immediately to prevent failure or capitalize on an opportunity.

Origin: The origin of the phrase is likely related to the traditional analog clock face, where "five before twelve" visually represents a point very close to midnight, often symbolically associated with endings, crises, or turning points.

Synonyms: While "the eleventh hour" is a direct English equivalent, other similar phrases include "at the last minute," "just in the nick of time," or "at the brink." In German, near synonyms might include "in letzter Minute" or "auf den letzten Drücker."