saved by the bell
The phrase "saved by the bell" is commonly used to describe a timely rescue from a difficult situation. It originates from boxing, where the bell rings to end a round, preventing further harm to a competitor.
🇺🇸 US Voice:
🇬🇧 UK Voice:
Definition
B2General
(idiomatic)Rescued from a difficult or unwanted situation by a timely interruption.
Example
- Just as the teacher was about to call on him, the fire alarm rang, and he was saved by the bell.
C1Sports
(boxing, wrestling)Spared from defeat or harm by the ringing of the bell at the end of a round.
Example
- The boxer was on the verge of being knocked out but was saved by the bell.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "saved by the bell":