save by the bell
The phrase 'save by the bell' originates from boxing and has evolved to describe timely rescues in everyday situations.
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Definition
C1Boxing
(technical, sports)To prevent a competitor who has been knocked down from being counted out by the referee by ringing the bell that concludes the round.
Example
- The boxer was saved by the bell just as the referee was about to count him out.
B2General
(idiomatic)To be rescued from an unwanted or difficult situation at the last possible moment.
Example
- I was saved by the bell when the meeting ended just as my boss was about to ask me a tough question.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "save by the bell":