Where did the phrase on the ball originate?
The phrase ‘on the ball’ did actually originate in the sporting arena, but relates to the eyes rather than the feet. It is a contraction of the earlier expression ‘keep your eye on the ball’, which advice has been given to participants in virtually every known ball game.
What does the idiom you are on the ball mean?
phrase. If someone is on the ball, they are very alert and aware of what is happening. She really is on the ball; she’s bought houses at auctions so she knows what she’s doing.
Where did the phrase Fat chance come from?
It seems to have originally referred to a good chance. This is from a late 19th century review of a production of Shakespeare’s King Lear: > Edgar has a fine “ fat” chance when Cordelia is set upon by two ruflians hired by Edmund. Of course, he rescues her in dashing style, and puts her assailants to flight.
How do you use the idiom on the ball?
Example Sentences He was right on the ball regarding his assessment of the situation. I couldn’t sleep well last night, so am not on the ball today. When his opponent tried to sneak in a pass, the defender was right on the ball and stopped it well. This mess wouldn’t have happened had you been on the ball.
What does green about the gills mean?
Also, green around the gills. Looking ill or nauseated, as in After that bumpy ride she looked quite green about the gills. The use of green to describe an ailing person’s complexion dates from about 1300, and gills has referred to the flesh around human jaws and ears since the 1600s.
What’s another word for on the ball?
On-the-ball synonyms (Idiomatic) attentive, active, busy or alert. Attentive; awake; on guard.
What is the idiom of hand in glove?
to be working very closely with another person or organization, often in order to do something dishonest or immoral. Employment on the building sites is controlled by more than 40 gangs, who are believed to be hand in glove with the police. Easy Learning Idioms Dictionary.
What is the meaning of the idiom beating around the bush?
To avoid getting to the point of an issue: “Your worries have nothing to do with the new proposal. Stop beating around the bush, and cast your vote!”
What does not on the ball mean?
to be quick to understand and react to things: I didn’t sleep well last night and I’m not really on the ball today.
What does GREY around the gills mean?
somewhat pale, as from being sickly, nervous, or frightened.
What does red around the gills mean?
If you see your fish gasping at the surface with red or inflamed gills, they may have ammonia poisoning. The water in their tank may appear murky, which is an indicator that the water hasn’t been ‘cycled’. To treat this condition, test the water for ammonia and pH, and check the water temperature.
How do you say on the ball?
on the ball
- alert,
- Argus-eyed,
- attentive,
- awake,
- observant,
- open-eyed,
- tenty.
- (also tentie)
What’s the origin of the phrase ‘on the ball’?
What’s the origin of the phrase ‘On the ball’? Some authorities have suggested that ‘on the ball’ originated in the sporting arena, and alludes to runners being on the balls of their feet, eagerly ready to run a race. This has some similarities with being ‘ up to scratch ‘, which derives from boxers or runners being ready at the starting line.
Can you guess the meaning of the idiom ‘on the ball’?
Look at the picture and try to guess the meaning of the idiom ‘on the ball.’ On the ball: to be alert, focused and able to react to something quickly. One theory about the origin of this idiom is that it’s a description of an athlete focusing on a ball in sports.
Where did the expression keep your eyes on the ball come from?
He was really on the ball. This phrase originated in sports, specifically in ball games where the players were asked to keep their “ eyes on the ball .” The current usage of the expression began in the 1900s and it is a shorter version of the original term, ‘ keep your eye on the ball .’
What is the origin of the phrase “competent as a ball”?
Other possible ball games from which the phrase could have originated are cricket and golf, but baseball is generally considered the source. By the early-1900s, the phrase had come to mean competent, effective, etc.