Meaning
The strict date or time by which a task, deliverable, or project must be completed.
Three examples from work
Scope negotiation
LeadIf we want to hit the Friday deadline, we must descope the analytics dashboard.
PMI agree; meeting the deadline is more critical than optional charts.
Status check
ClientCan you guarantee the delivery deadline for the beta build?
Account LeadYes, our team is on track to deliver before the agreed deadline.
Risk mitigation
DevThird-party API verification delays might push our release deadline.
LeadLet's give stakeholders a heads-up today to manage expectations.
Common phrases: 'meet a deadline', 'miss a deadline', 'tight deadline', 'push back a deadline'.