How Do You Spell NARROW SQUEAK?

Pronunciation: [nˈaɹə͡ʊ skwˈiːk] (IPA)

The phrase "narrow squeak" is often used to describe a narrowly avoided disaster or close call. The correct spelling of "squeak" is pronounced /skwiːk/ and is spelled with a "q" instead of a "k" because it is derived from the Old Norse word "skvakka". The "w" in the spelling causes the pronunciation of the "u" to be elongated, creating the "ee" sound. Knowing the correct spelling ensures clear communication and helps avoid misconceptions.

NARROW SQUEAK Meaning and Definition

1. A "narrow squeak" refers to a very close escape or a situation in which someone barely avoids a disaster, failure, danger, or an unfavorable outcome. It is an idiomatic expression used to describe a moment or event in which success is achieved or safety is secured by a slim margin. The term "squeak" here is metaphorical, representing a high-pitched sound made when one narrowly avoids an unfortunate outcome.

   This phrase is often used to emphasize the intensity or severity of a situation, highlighting the slim margin between success and failure. It conveys a sense of relief and underscores the element of luck or fortune involved in encountering a positive outcome despite challenging circumstances. A narrow squeak implies that although the individual may have prevailed, the situation was still incredibly perilous or even life-threatening.

   The phrase is frequently used in a colloquial or informal context to describe situations that could have gone wrong but turned out well due to a stroke of luck, quick thinking, or an unexpected turn of events. It can be applied to various scenarios, including escaping danger, narrowly avoiding an accident, overcoming a serious health issue, or any instance where a person narrowly evades an unfavorable outcome. In summary, a narrow squeak denotes a narrow escape from a dangerous or unfavorable circumstance, often characterized by a sense of relief and an acknowledgment of the precariousness of the situation.

Common Misspellings for NARROW SQUEAK

• barrow squeak
• marrow squeak
• jarrow squeak
• harrow squeak
• nzrrow squeak
• nsrrow squeak
• nwrrow squeak
• nqrrow squeak
• naerow squeak
• nadrow squeak
• nafrow squeak
• natrow squeak
• na5row squeak
• na4row squeak
• nareow squeak
• nardow squeak
• narfow squeak
• nartow squeak
• nar5ow squeak
• nar4ow squeak

Etymology of NARROW SQUEAK

The etymology of the phrase "narrow squeak" is not entirely clear, as it is an idiom and idiomatic expressions often have uncertain origins. However, it is believed to have developed in the 19th century and is attributed to the use of "squeak" as a metaphor for a narrow escape from danger or trouble.

The word "squeak" itself can be traced back to Middle English, where it referred to a high-pitched sound or cry. By the 18th century, "squeak" had gained the figurative sense of narrowly avoiding something, particularly in contexts related to gambling or betting. For example, to "squeak through" meant to barely succeed or barely avoid losing in a bet.

The addition of "narrow" to "squeak" reinforces the idea of a close or narrow margin of escape.

Idioms with the word NARROW SQUEAK

• a narrow squeak The idiom "a narrow squeak" refers to a situation where someone barely avoids danger, failure, or a negative outcome by a very small margin or a slim chance. It implies that success or escape was achieved by the narrowest of margins, often accompanied by a sense of relief.
• narrow squeak A narrow squeak is a situation that was very close to ending in failure or disaster, but ultimately turned out okay.