close call

noun

ˈklōs- 

: a narrow escape

Synonyms of close call

• narrow escape
• hairbreadth escape
• close shave

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

Finally, Lionel Messi's Argentina, having narrowly advanced, faces a defensive-minded Switzerland, with Argentina expected to win despite recent close calls. — Michael Lewis, Forbes.com, 8 July 2026

But with Luis Arraez due up second Wednesday afternoon, a different close call may have flashed into Cease’s head. — Sean Campbell, Sacbee.com, 8 July 2026

The Supreme Court’s decision was a close call that could have gone either way. — Susan Shelley, Oc Register, 5 July 2026

Not every close call involves death-defying drop-offs and enraged bison. — Ashlea Halpern, Condé Nast Traveler, 2 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1861, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for close call

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• gossypol

Kids Definition

close call

noun

: a narrow escape