The phrase "as near as dammit" is used to express that something is very close or almost exact. The spelling of the word "dammit" in this phrase is actually a colloquial variant of the word "damn it". It is pronounced with a flat "a" sound as in "dad" (dæm-it) and the stress falls on the second syllable. The word "near" is pronounced with the IPA phonetic transcription of /nɪər/ which means it has a long "e" sound and a distinct "r" sound.
The phrase "as near as dammit" is an idiomatic expression that means something is very close to a specific or desired outcome, result, or description. It emphasizes that although it may not be exact or precise, the difference is negligible and therefore insignificant.
The word "near" in this phrase signifies proximity or closeness, while "dammit" is a colloquialism that expresses frustration or emphasis. Together, they highlight the speaker's determination to convey an approximation that is as close and accurate as possible.
When someone uses the phrase "as near as dammit," they are emphasizing that the subject or situation being discussed is almost identical or very similar to what is expected, even though it might not precisely meet all the desired criteria. This phrase is often used to convey the speaker's confidence in the similarity or closeness of the situation.
Using this expression implies that the differences between the actual and expected outcomes are minor, insignificant, or negligible, thereby fulfilling the intentions or requirements to a suitable extent. It conveys a sense of satisfaction or contentment in achieving a result that is nearly perfect or as close to the desired outcome as possible.