On the ball
English Idiom
Meaning: Being alert, attentive, and able to respond quickly to situations. It implies someone is sharp and performing tasks efficiently and correctly.
Origin: The idiom 'on the ball' is believed to have originated from sports, particularly baseball or soccer, where being 'on the ball' meant a player was alert and ready to make a play. Over time, the phrase has transcended sports and is now commonly used in various contexts to describe someone who is sharp and efficient.
Examples
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During the meeting, Sarah was really on the ball, answering every question with confidence and precision.
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Despite the challenging project deadline, Jake was on the ball and managed to complete all tasks ahead of schedule.
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You can always rely on Jenna; she’s consistently on the ball and never misses any details.
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The new assistant is truly on the ball, organizing everything perfectly and anticipating the team's needs.
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Even with multiple projects at hand, Mark remains on the ball, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks.
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Sheila’s ability to stay on the ball has significantly improved the department’s efficiency and productivity.
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When the unexpected issue arose, Tom was on the ball and quickly provided a viable solution.
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The CEO praised the intern for being on the ball during the high-stakes presentation.
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Being on the ball, Karen noticed the error in the report before it was sent to the client.
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In the fast-paced world of journalism, being on the ball is essential for delivering timely and accurate news.
