Dictionary

near miss

noun

: an attempt that is almost successful

: an accident that is just barely avoided

: a bomb that misses its target but still causes damage

Full Definition of NEAR MISS

1
a :  a miss (as with a bomb) close enough to cause damage
b :  something that falls just short of success
2
a :  a near collision (as between aircraft)
b :  close call
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First Known Use of NEAR MISS

1940

Related to NEAR MISS

Synonyms
close shave, close call

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