Definition

Noun: 1. A perfect shot in tenpin bowling: The act of knocking down all ten pins with the first ball rolled in a single frame. This is also commonly called a "strike." 2. A complete and overwhelming success: (Figurative, informal) An action or event that is entirely successful or achieves its goal perfectly.

Usage

• The primary and literal use is in the sport of tenpin bowling.
• The figurative use describes any resounding success, though it is somewhat dated and informal.

Examples

• Literal (Bowling):
  • She started the game with a ten-strike, which boosted her confidence.
  • Getting a ten-strike in the final frame can completely change the outcome of the match.
• Figurative (Success):
  • His new business idea was a ten-strike, attracting investors immediately.
  • The marketing campaign was a real ten-strike, doubling their sales in a month.

Advanced Usage

• "to make a ten-strike": To achieve a strike in bowling or, figuratively, to have a major success.
  • The young entrepreneur made a ten-strike with her innovative app.

Variants and Related Words

• Strike (noun): The more common and modern term for a ten-strike in bowling. It is used identically in both literal and figurative contexts.
• Strike (verb): To achieve a strike in bowling (e.g., ).
• Spare (noun): The act of knocking down all ten pins with balls in a single frame, as opposed to a strike/ten-strike which uses only one.

Synonyms

• Strike (noun): The direct synonym in bowling and figurative language.
• Bullseye: A perfect shot in archery or darts; used figuratively for a perfect success.
• Slam dunk: A sure and impressive success (from basketball).
• Coup: A notable or brilliant success.

Idioms and Phrases

• "to bowl a strike": The standard phrase for achieving a ten-strike.
  • You need to bowl a strike now to win the game.
• "to have a strike": To possess a successful outcome or perfect score.
  • She had a strike with every critic who reviewed her book.

Noun

1. a score in tenpins: knocking down all ten with the first ball
   • he finished with three strikes in the tenth frame