Definitions

wake-up call

NOUN

cautionary tale

Synonyms

WEAK

a few words of wisdom admonition advisory caution light caveat deterrent example enough said event illustrating a hazard forewarning hint lesson message moral omen portent red flag sign of things to come warning word to the wise

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Beijing’s ability to leverage its rare-earth-magnet dominance in trade negotiations was the latest wake-up call, as those inputs are used in everything from weapons systems to electric-vehicle motors.

From Barron's • May 26, 2026

But I’d encourage you to use this discovery as motivation — a wake-up call that jolts you into action.

From MarketWatch • May 20, 2026

“I think that experience really was a wake-up call to me,” he said.

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

“This should represent a wake-up call for the investment trust sector and its regulators,” Simpson-Dent added.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 30, 2026

Some days he even just stays in the living room after wake-up call.

From "We Were Here" by Matt De La Peña

wake-up call

Example Sentences

Related Words