Word: Curve Ball
Basic Definition: A "curve ball" is a term that originally comes from baseball. It refers to a type of pitch (a throw) that is thrown with a special spin, causing the ball to curve or change direction as it gets closer to the batter.
Usage Instructions: - You can use "curve ball" both in a literal sense (talking about baseball) and in a figurative sense (talking about unexpected situations in life).
Example (Baseball Context): - "The pitcher threw a curve ball that surprised the batter, and he missed it completely."
Figurative Example: - "Life threw me a curve ball when I lost my job unexpectedly, and I had to find a new one quickly."
Advanced Usage: In a more advanced or figurative context, saying someone threw you a "curve ball" means they did something unexpected or surprising that changed your plans or understanding of a situation.
Word Variants: - The phrase "curve" can be used in different contexts, such as "to curve" (verb) meaning to bend or change direction. - "Curved" (adjective) describes something that is not straight but bent.
Different Meanings: 1. Literal Meaning: In baseball, a pitch that curves. 2. Figurative Meaning: An unexpected challenge or surprise in life.
Synonyms: - Surprise - Twist - Unexpected event - Challenge
Idioms Related to "Curve Ball": - "Throw someone a curve ball" means to surprise someone with an unexpected event or challenge.