passing play

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Word: Passing Play

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: In American football, a "passing play" refers to a specific type of play where one player (usually the quarterback) throws the ball to a teammate (usually a receiver) in order to advance the ball down the field.

Usage Instructions:

• You can use "passing play" when discussing strategies or specific plays in a football game.
• It often comes up in conversations about game tactics or when describing a specific moment in a match.

Example Sentence:

• "The coach sent in a passing play on third and long to try to gain the necessary yards for a first down."

Advanced Usage:

• In more strategic discussions, you might hear phrases like "the effectiveness of the passing play" or "executing a passing play successfully." This refers to how well the team can perform this kind of play.

Word Variants:

• Pass (verb): To throw the ball.
• Receiver (noun): The player who catches the ball.
• Quarterback (noun): The player who typically throws the ball during a passing play.

Different Meanings:

• Outside of football, "passing play" does not have a commonly used alternate meaning. However, the word "passing" can refer to something being done quickly or without much focus, like "passing thoughts."

Synonyms:

• Throwing play: Another term that can be used, though it's less common.
• Pass play: This is directly related and often used interchangeably in football contexts.

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Pass the ball": To give the ball to another player, often used in various sports.
• "In the passing lane": Often used metaphorically to indicate being in a position to receive something or being in the right place at the right time.

Summary:

"Passing play" is a term specific to American football that describes a strategic play involving throwing the ball to a teammate. It highlights teamwork and strategy, crucial elements of the game.

Academic

Noun

1. (American football) a play that involves one player throwing the ball to a teammate
   • the coach sent in a passing play on third and long

Synonyms

• pass
• passing game
• passing