# down to the short strokes

idiom

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/down-to-the-short-strokes
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

In the final steps or decisive phase of an undertaking, especially one which has been lengthy or laborious.

## Examples

- We are down to the short strokes on this project.
- After working on the house renovation for six months, we are finally down to the short strokes and should finish by Friday.
- With the final legal documents being signed and the last few details settled, the long negotiation is finally down to the short strokes.

## Origin

The expression is of uncertain origin, with several competing theories regarding its development. It is often attributed to the discipline of painting, where a finished work requires final, meticulous strokes of the brush to achieve completion. A similar case is made for the game of golf, where a player concludes the play of each hole by abandoning the long drive in favour of the shorter, more precise strokes of the putter. Alternatively, the phrase is linked to competitive swimming. A swimmer approaching the wall to either turn or finish may employ a shorter stroke to facilitate a smoother transition or a faster conclusion to the heat. Each theory presents the short stroke as the final, necessary adjustment before a task is considered done. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.