call an audible

The phrase "call an audible" originates from American football and is used to describe making a last-minute change in plans.

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Definition

(sports, technical)To change the planned play at the line of scrimmage by shouting new instructions to teammates.

The quarterback decided to call an audible after seeing the defense's formation.

(idiomatic, informal)To make a last-minute change in plans based on new information or circumstances.

We had to call an audible and move the meeting to a different room due to a scheduling conflict.

Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "call an audible":