Dodgeabullet Idioms By The Free Dictionary

Julian Sterling

-Apr 12, 2026, 8:54 PM

dodgeabullet idioms by the free dictionary

dodge a bullet idiom meaning Idiom: Dodge a Bullet Definition: “Dodge a bullet” is an idiomatic expression that means to successfully avoid a dangerous or undesirable situation, typically one that could have had serious consequences. It often refers to narrowly escaping a problem, mishap, or negative outcome. Usage: The phrase can be used in various contexts, often to describe scenarios of personal or professional nature, such as avoiding a mistake, an accident, or a figurative “bullet” in life decisions.

For example: - “I thought I was going to lose my job during the layoffs, but I dodged a bullet.” Etymology: The idiom likely originates from the world of firearms, where “dodge” implies moving swiftly out of the way and “bullet” refers to the projectile that is fired from a gun. The metaphorical use of “bullet” represents any form of danger or threat, emphasizing the urgency and sharpness of the situation one has avoided.

Pronunciation: /dɒdʒ ə ˈbʊlɪt/ Synonyms: - Escape a disaster - Avoid danger - Narrow escape - Sidestep trouble - Elude peril Antonyms: - Face the consequences - Fall into a trap - Encounter danger - Suffer a setback - Experience a downfall In summary, “dodge a bullet” conveys the notion of slipping past a risky or harmful situation, symbolizing a fortunate outcome amidst potential adversity. - When the company decided to cancel the product launch, we all felt like we had dodged a bullet.

Missing that last-minute meeting with the client turned out to be a blessing in disguise; I really dodged a bullet there. - After nearly accepting a job offer from that company, I learned about their high employee turnover and felt like I had dodged a bullet. - When I realized I had left my phone at home, I thought I had lost it, but later found out it had fallen out of my pocket in the car—definitely dodged a bullet!