(to) within an inch of one's life
Almost to the point of death: he was beaten within an inch of his life...- Just for that, I'm going to email Fitz and tell him to beat you within an inch of your life with a wet noodle the next time he sees you..
- And I'm not going to spare you, I'm going to pummel you within an inch of your life.
- Taxis aren't much better with drivers that leave you within an inch of your life.
See parent entry: inch