“Close call” is a common English idiom used to describe a situation where a disaster, accident, or major misfortune narrowly missed happening. It is essentially a “near miss”—the event could have turned out incredibly badly, but due to luck, timing, or quick reflexes, the worst-case scenario was avoided at the very last second.
The phrase has two main definitions, a distinct historical origin, and significant importance in professional settings. 1. The Two Main Meanings
A Narrow Escape (Most Common): Used when you just barely avoid danger or failure.
Example: Swerving your car violently to avoid hitting a deer on the highway. You didn’t crash, but it was a close call.
Example: Running through an airport and stepping onto the plane right as the doors are sealing shut.
A Tight Competition or Judgment: Used when a decision or race is so close that the outcome could easily have gone either way.
Example: A referee making a tough judgment call at first base in a baseball game.
Example: An election where two candidates are separated by only a handful of votes. 2. Origins of the Phrase
According to Dictionary.com, the idiom dates back to the late 1800s and roots itself in sports. It originally referred to an official’s or umpire’s decision (the “call”) that was incredibly difficult to make because the play happened so fast or was so tightly contested. Over time, the general public began using it to describe narrowly escaping any tight or dangerous situation.
It is closely related to similar English idioms like “a close shave” or “by the skin of my teeth.” 3. Importance in Workplace Safety CLOSE CALL Definition & Meaning – Merriam-Webster
Kids Definition. close call. noun. : a narrow escape. Last Updated: 30 May 2026 – Updated example sentences. Merriam-Webster Safety Tip of the Week – Close Calls / Near Misses
Leave a Reply