close call

noun

: a narrow escape

Examples of close call in a Sentence

We nearly didn't get out of the burning building. It was a pretty close call, let me tell you! the doctor said I'd had a close call, and was lucky to be alive
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Tampa Bay is coming off a close call against the Panthers and that should grab their attention and serve them well against another non-playoff opponent. Hank Gola, New York Daily News, 6 Dec. 2024 The vote — held after weeks of wrangling over 2025 budget plans to hike taxes and cut public spending — was not a close call, with the number of deputies supporting the motion far exceeding the 288 necessary for the motion to pass in parliament, the National Assembly. Holly Ellyatt, CNBC, 5 Dec. 2024 Over time, there have been conversations and maybe even close calls with schools inquiring about his services. Brian Hamilton, The Athletic, 21 Nov. 2024 In the same conversation, this man described his own close call with an Israeli air strike—an experience that did not lessen his hunger to see Hezbollah destroyed. Robert F. Worth, The Atlantic, 31 Oct. 2024 See all Example Sentences for close call 

Word History

First Known Use

1881, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of close call was in 1881

Dictionary Entries Near close call

Cite this Entry

“Close call.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/close%20call. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Kids Definition

close call

noun
: a narrow escape
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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