CLOSE CALL Synonyms: 7 Similar and Opposite Words

close call

noun

ˈklōs-

Definition of close call next

as in narrow escape

a barely successful escape from something undesirable the doctor said I'd had a close call, and was lucky to be alive

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

misfire

Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of close call The two talked about some of Billy's close calls with death, his journey with music, his family and his identity. —

Brittney Melton, NPR, 26 Mar. 2026 Combined with the top overall seed this year, and the close call against Siena in round one, and with Cameron Boozer’s lone season, that pressure isn’t letting up. —

Justin Williams, New York Times, 25 Mar. 2026 There have been some close calls along the way. —

Joseph Duarte, Houston Chronicle, 24 Mar. 2026 Other passengers told similar stories of close calls amid the chaos. —

Evan Simko-Bednarski, New York Daily News, 23 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for close call

Recent Examples of Synonyms for close call

close shave

Noun

Villa rely on its revenue to push their limits, so going another year on the outside will mean player sales, budget cuts and very, very close shaves with financial sanctions.

— Carl Anka, New York Times, 13 Mar. 2026
Speaking of a close shave, Cincinnati couldn't decide a winner between No 5.

— Rasputin Todd, Cincinnati Enquirer, 10 Mar. 2026