Definition

Noun: 1. A change of pace: A baseball pitch thrown with significantly less velocity than a fastball, intended to disrupt the batter's timing and expectations. This term originates from baseball but is also used metaphorically. 2. A change of pace: Any deliberate variation in routine, activity, or style, introduced to provide contrast, refreshment, or a new stimulus.

Usage Examples

• Baseball context:
  • The pitcher's change-of-pace completely fooled the batter, who swung far too early.
  • His most effective pitch is a slow change-of-pace that looks like his fastball until the last moment.
• Metaphorical/General context:
  • After working on the report all week, going for a hike was a nice change-of-pace.
  • The director included a quiet, emotional scene as a change-of-pace in the action-packed movie.

Advanced Usage

• The term is often used in its hyphenated form ("change-of-pace") when referring specifically to the baseball pitch or as a compound modifier (e.g., "a change-of-pace pitch"). In more general usage, it is commonly written without hyphens as "a change of pace."
• It implies a temporary or strategic shift, not a permanent alteration.

Variants and Related Words

• Changeup (n.): A more specific baseball term synonymous with a "change-of-pace" pitch.
• Pace (n.): The speed or rate at which something happens or is done. The "change-of-pace" alters this rate.
• Variation (n.): A change or slight difference in condition, amount, or level. A "change-of-pace" is a type of variation in rhythm or speed.

Synonyms

• Alteration: A change, typically one that makes something slightly different.
• Break: A pause or interval, often providing relief from routine.
• Diversion: An instance of turning something aside from its course; a distraction or pastime.
• Shift: A slight change in position, direction, or tendency.

Related Phrases

• A breath of fresh air: Something new and refreshing, similar to a welcome "change of pace."
• To mix things up: An informal phrase meaning to introduce variety or change, often to avoid monotony.

Notes

• In the specific context of baseball, a "change-of-pace" is a tactical tool used to gain an advantage by breaking a pattern. Its metaphorical use retains this core idea of strategically interrupting a predictable sequence for a beneficial effect.

Noun

1. a baseball thrown with little velocity when the batter is expecting a fastball