Meanings
Probably an allusion to the important responsibilities of a railway switchman.
How to pronounce "asleep at the switch":
AU
Neglectful of an important task, responsibility, or opportunity.
Example Sentences
1
He was asleep at the switch and missed his chance to impress the boss.
2
The security guard was asleep at the switch when the thief snuck into the building.
3
The referee was clearly asleep at the switch and missed the foul.
4
The teacher was asleep at the switch and didn't notice the students cheating on the test.
5
The government official was asleep at the switch and failed to address the urgent crisis.