Close call: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Close call” mean?

"Close call" means a situation where something dangerous or bad almost happened, but was narrowly avoided.

What context can I use the in?

Example

That was a close call! The car barely missed hitting me.

Example

We had a close call with the storm. It passed just before reaching our town.

Example

It was a close call but we managed to finish the project just in time

Is “Close call” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Close call” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Close call” effectively in context?

You can use "Close call" to describe a situation where something dangerous or bad almost happened, but was narrowly avoided. It emphasizes the sense of relief and the realization of how close the situation was. For example, if you narrowly avoid getting hit by a car, you might say, 'That was a "close call"! The car barely missed hitting me.'

• 1. Safety

  She had a close call when she slipped on the stairs but managed to grab the railing in time.

• 2. Weather

  We had a close call with the storm. It passed just before reaching our town.

• 3. Deadline

  It was a close call but we managed to finish the project just in time.

Similar phrases to “Close call”:

Narrow escape

A situation where someone narrowly avoids danger or harm

Example

He had a narrow escape when he jumped out of the way of the speeding car.

Brush with death

A situation where someone comes very close to dying

Example

Her car accident was a brush with death, but she survived with minor injuries.

Skin of one's teeth

A situation where someone barely manages to succeed or survive

Example

He passed the exam by the skin of his teeth, getting just enough points to pass.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Close call” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Close call" is unknown.

Is “Close call” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Close call" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where they narrowly avoided a dangerous or bad outcome.

What tone does “Close call” have?

"Close call" conveys a tone of relief and gratitude. It's often used to express gratitude for narrowly escaping a potentially harmful or disastrous situation.

Can “Close call” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Close call" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of narrowly avoiding danger or disaster. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, meetings, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'That was a "close call"! I almost got hit by a falling tree.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Phew, "close call"!' to express relief.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• near miss
• hair's breadth
• almost disaster
• barely escaped
• narrowly dodged

Antonyms

• smooth sailing
• safe distance
• no threat
• easy accomplishment
• comfortable margin