wake-up call
wake-up call (idiom)
/ˈweɪk.ʌp ˌkɔl/
Meaning
- An event or situation that alerts people to a problem or danger, prompting them to take action.
- A metaphorical term for an occurrence that serves as a warning or prompt for change.
- A telephone call made, especially in hotels, to awaken someone at a prearranged time.
Example Sentences
- The sudden drop in sales was a wake-up call for the company to revamp its marketing strategy.
- After his health scare, he took it as a wake-up call to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
- The natural disaster served as a wake-up call about the importance of emergency preparedness.
- Her failing grades were a wake-up call that she needed to focus more on her studies.
- The documentary was a wakeup call to the public about environmental issues.
Origin and History
The term “wake-up call” originally referred to a service provided by hotels, where a staff member would call a guest’s room at a predetermined time to wake them up. This practice was especially common before the widespread use of personal alarm clocks.
Earliest Recorded Use
The earliest recorded use of “wake-up call” in its literal sense dates back to 1861, as noted in the Bloomington (Illinois) Daily Pantagraph.
Figurative Usage
Over time, “wake-up call” evolved into a metaphorical expression. It began to signify an event or situation that serves as a warning or prompt for individuals or groups to recognize a problem and take corrective action. For instance, a health scare might be described as a “wake-up call” to adopt a healthier lifestyle.
Evolution of the Phrase
The transition from a literal to a figurative meaning reflects the adaptability of language. While the original context was specific to hotels, the phrase broadened to encompass any event that prompts awareness or change. This shift illustrates how everyday terms can acquire deeper, more symbolic meanings over time.
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