within an ace of
Almost but not quite; very close to; nearly.
Tim came within an ace of losing the election.
within an inch of one's life
Until you are almost dead; near to dying. Often used after to.
The bear clawed the hunter within an inch of his life.
The prize fighter was beaten to within an inch of his life.
within an inch of
Almost but not quite; very close to; nearly.
John was within an inch of drowning before he was pulled out of the water.