Sports have a language of their own, filled with idioms and phrasal verbs that capture the essence of competition and teamwork. Understanding these expressions can enhance your communication and comprehension of sports-related discussions. Here are 20 common sports expressions to add to your vocabulary.
1. A Good Sport
Meaning: Someone who accepts defeat well
Example: She’s always a good sport, win or lose.
2. On the Ball
Meaning: Alert and efficient
Example: You need to be on the ball to succeed here.
3. In the Running
Meaning: Having a chance to win
Example: He’s still in the running for the promotion.
4. Hit Below the Belt
Meaning: Unfair attack
Example: His comment was really hitting below the belt.
5. Give It Your Best Shot
Meaning: Do your best
Example: Just give it your best shot in the interview.
6. Par for the Course
Meaning: Typical, usual
Example: Delays are par for the course in this job.
7. Drop the Gloves
Meaning: Start a fight
Example: They dropped the gloves during the meeting.
8. Blow the Whistle
Meaning: Expose wrongdoing
Example: She blew the whistle on the company’s corruption.
9. Take One for the Team
Meaning: Sacrifice for the group
Example: He decided to take one for the team and work late.
10. Get Off the Bench
Meaning: Start participating
Example: It’s time to get off the bench and help out.
11. Play Hardball
Meaning: Be tough and aggressive
Example: They decided to play hardball in the negotiations.
12. Throw a Hail Mary
Meaning: Attempt something desperate
Example: They threw a Hail Mary to win the contract.
13. In the Big Leagues
Meaning: At a high level
Example: He’s playing in the big leagues now with this job.
14. Go to Bat for Someone
Meaning: Support someone
Example: She’ll go to bat for you if you need help.
15. Throw a Curveball
Meaning: Introduce an unexpected challenge
Example: The new regulation threw a curveball at our plans.
16. Cover All the Bases
Meaning: Be thorough
Example: Make sure you cover all the bases in your report.
17. Keep Your Eye on the Ball
Meaning: Stay focused
Example: You must keep your eye on the ball during negotiations.
18. Step Up to the Plate
Meaning: Take responsibility
Example: It’s time to step up to the plate and lead the team.
19. On the Sidelines
Meaning: Not actively involved
Example: He was left on the sidelines during the project.
20. The Ball Is in Your Court
Meaning: It’s your decision
Example: I’ve done my part; now the ball is in your court.
