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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.

“After the recent tariffs on U.S. imports, the conflict represents another wake-up call to deploy new tools to make supply chains more resilient and develop new strategies to mitigate future disruptions,” the company said.

From The Wall Street Journal • May 7, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times • May 6, 2026

The Health Foundation said the findings revealed a stark decline in the nation's health and that this should be a wake-up call for policymakers.

From BBC • Apr. 27, 2026

Isabelle Mateos y Lago, chief economist at BNP, told Barron’s on Wednesday the conflict could serve as another wake-up call for world leaders.

From Barron's • Apr. 17, 2026

I basically hung out in my room, listening to tunes and trying to catch some zees after the four A.M. wake-up call.

From "Anthem of a Reluctant Prophet" by Joanne Proulx