Double play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "Double play" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of baseball to describe a play in which two outs are made in one continuous action. Example: "The shortstop made an incredible double play, catching the line drive and then tagging second base to get the runner out."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

Double play.

The New York Times - Sports

Double play, inning over.

The New York Times - Sports

Double Play.

Forbes

A double play".

The New York Times

1.31am BST Double play!

The Guardian - Sport

"Trying to get the double play".

The New York Times - Sports

His double play is big steps.

The New York Times - Sports

"Getting a double play was a bonus".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Single, double-play ball, strikeout.

The New York Times

The Mets missed a double-play opportunity.

The New York Times - Sports

"Three double-play balls," Howe said, sighing.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "Double play" in baseball contexts, ensure the description accurately reflects the sequence of outs. Be specific about which players were involved and how the play unfolded for clarity.

Common error

Avoid using "Double play" outside of contexts where two actions or outcomes are clearly and directly linked. Overusing it metaphorically can dilute its impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "Double play" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It identifies a specific type of defensive play in baseball where two outs are recorded. As Ludwig AI points out, it also can refer to achieving two outcomes from a single action in a more general sense.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "Double play" is a versatile phrase primarily used to describe a defensive play in baseball where two outs are recorded, as explained by Ludwig AI. It also extends to scenarios where two results are achieved simultaneously. Its usage is prevalent in news and media, with a neutral register. While grammatically correct, its application should be contextually appropriate to maintain clarity and impact. Consider alternatives like "twin killing" or "two for one" for varied expression. Understanding its nuances ensures effective communication across different domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Twin killing

Replaces "Double play" with a more colorful, baseball-specific term for the same action.

Turning two

Is a baseball slang which means to execute a double play.

Unassisted double play

Highlights that the "Double play" was executed by a single player without assistance.

Inning-ending double play

Specifies that the "Double play" concludes the inning, adding context.

Defensive double

Emphasizes the defensive aspect of the play, suitable when focusing on the fielding team's action.

Two for one

A more direct substitute, literally describing the concept of getting two results at once.

Getting two outs on one play

Describes the action of a double play in a more descriptive way.

Twofer

Offers a more informal, colloquial substitute for "Double play", implying two outcomes from one action.

Two birds with one stone

Uses a common idiom to express achieving two objectives simultaneously, similar to the second definition of "Double play".

Achieving two results simultaneously

Focuses on the dual outcome aspect, applicable beyond baseball contexts.

FAQs

How is "Double play" used in baseball?

In baseball, a "Double play" refers to a single continuous play by the defense that results in two outs. It often involves fielding a ground ball and throwing to different bases to force out two runners.

Can "Double play" be used outside of sports?

Yes, while commonly associated with baseball, "Double play" can also refer to achieving two results with a single action in other contexts. For example, a marketing campaign that increases brand awareness and drives sales could be described as a "Double play".

What are some alternative ways to say "Double play" in a baseball context?

Alternatives include "twin killing" or describing the specific actions, such as "turning two". A similar term is "getting two outs on one play".

Is it correct to use "Double play" to describe any two things happening at once?

While it can be used metaphorically, it's most effective when the two outcomes are directly related and result from a single action. Otherwise, phrases like "achieving two results simultaneously" may be more appropriate.