Definition & Meaning of "close call"

Close call

NOUN

a situation where there is an equal chance for one to fail or succeed

Idiom

What is the origin of the idiom "close call" and when to use it?

The idiom "close call" is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, and it is often used to emphasize the uncertainty or nearness of an outcome that could go either way. It underscores the idea that the outcome is finely balanced, and the margin between success and failure is very narrow.

Example

The company had a close call with a cyber attack, but their security measures prevented the breach.

The driver narrowly avoided a collision with a truck on the highway.

a situation where one avoids a danger just before it is too late

Idiom

Informal

What is the origin of the idiom "close call" and when to use it?

The idiom "close call" originated from the concept of narrowly avoiding a dangerous or undesirable outcome, emphasizing the proximity to disaster. It is commonly used to describe a situation in which someone or something narrowly escapes harm or misfortune just before it becomes too late.

Example

It was a close call when the car swerved in front of us, but my quick reflexes prevented an accident.

The hikers had a close call with a sudden thunderstorm, but they found shelter in a cave just in time.