by a whisker

The phrase "by a whisker" is an idiomatic expression meaning to win or succeed in something by a very narrow margin or with a very small amount. It suggests that the outcome was extremely close and could have easily gone the other way. It is often used in sports or competitive situations to describe a victory or achievement that was just barely achieved. The phrase is derived from the idea of a whisker, which is a very small hair or strand, emphasizing the minimal difference between winning and losing.