nip and tuck
The phrase "nip and tuck" typically refers to a close competition or race that is extremely tight and may involve frequent and rapid changes in position. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a situation where two or more entities are equally matched or closely contending with one another. The phrase originated from the world of plastic surgery, where "nip" refers to a small surgical incision and "tuck" refers to a procedure to tighten loose skin.
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