seɪvd baɪ ðə bɛl
Sports
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- rescued from a knockout by the bell signaling the end of a boxing round
What does "saved by the bell" mean?
rescued from a difficult situation at the last moment by an unexpected intervention
Examples
- I hadn't finished my report, but the meeting was cancelled — saved by the bell!
- The student was saved by the bell when the fire drill interrupted the pop quiz.
- Just as the boss was about to ask me for the figures, a phone call came in — saved by the bell.
Origin
From boxing, where a fighter can be saved from being counted out if the bell rings.
How to use it
Used humorously or with relief when someone narrowly avoids an uncomfortable situation.
Similar expressions
in the nick of time
just in time
a narrow escape
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
Try "saved by the bell" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.