Drop the ball

usgb
verb

To make a mistake, or fail in an important way.

You really dropped the ball when you forgot about the meeting.
Visual representation of "drop the ball" - To make a mistake, or fail in an important way.

Often appears as...

  • don't drop the ball
  • he dropped the ball

Usage tips

Informal, Disapproving

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "drop the ball"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Expectation Failure

Used when someone fails to meet what is expected of them.

Illustration for Expectation Failure
In the championship game, the goalkeeper dropped the ball.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Task Responsibility

Refers to missing a personal responsibility or specific task.

Illustration for Task Responsibility
As team leader, you can't afford to drop the ball on this project.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Sports Origin

Originates from when a player accidentally drops a ball in sports, leading to a mistake.

Illustration for Sports Origin
He was a great player, but he dropped the ball during the final inning.
Visual representation of the word "Drop the ball"

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