With March Madness basketball tournaments kicking off in the U.S., in today’s blog post we will explore how sports-related phrases are often used in business contexts.
Game plan
Definition: A strategy or plan of action for achieving a specific goal.
Example: “Before the meeting, let’s discuss our game plan for increasing sales next quarter.”
The ball is in your court
Definition: It’s now up to you to take action or make a decision.
Example: “We’ve presented all the options; now the ball is in your court to choose the best course of action.”
Drop the ball
Definition: To make a mistake or fail to take responsibility for something important.
Example: “I can’t believe we missed the deadline! We really dropped the ball on this project.”
Get the ball rolling
Definition: To start an action or process.
Example: “Let’s get the ball rolling on this marketing campaign by scheduling the first meeting.”
Make the cut
Definition: To be selected or meet the required standard, often in a competitive situation.
Example: “Only the top three candidates will make the cut for the final interview.”
Ballpark figure
Definition: A rough estimate or approximation of a value or number.
Example: “Can you give me a ballpark figure for the cost of the new software system?”
Step up to the plate
Definition: To take responsibility and act when needed.
Example: “As the team leader, it’s time for you to step up to the plate and ensure this project stays on track.”
On the home straight
Definition: Close to finishing or completing something.
Example: “We’ve resolved most of the issues, and now we’re on the home straight with the product launch.”
Throw in the towel
Definition: To give up or admit defeat.
Example: “After months of negotiations, we had to throw in the towel when the terms didn’t meet our requirements.”
On the bench
Definition: Not actively involved in a project or task, often because one is waiting for the right opportunity.
Example: “John’s been on the bench since the project ended, but I think he’ll be a great fit for the new initiative.”
Practice
Time to practise! Consider the following questions. Post your answers in the comments! Or why not book a lesson to practise your English with an experienced and friendly Intrepid English Teacher?
- Can you think of a time when you or your team dropped the ball on an important task? What did you learn from it?
- Can you recall a time when you had to step up to the plate and take on more responsibility than you expected?
- What do you find helps you stay motivated when you’re on the home straight of a long project?
- When is it appropriate to throw in the towel on a project, and how do you know when it’s time to move on?
Can you think of any other sports-related phrases that you have heard at work? Post your thoughts in the comments.