a double play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a 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 throw to first base, completing a double play that shifted the momentum of the game."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

A double play".

The New York Times

"Getting a double play was a bonus".

The New York Times - Sports

Martin grounded into a double play.

The New York Times

Jackson, though, grounded into a double play.

The New York Times - Sports

A double play helped him escape unscathed.

The New York Times

"That's a double play ball," Martin said.

The New York Times - Sports

Tony Womack grounded into a double play.

The New York Times - Sports

A double play ended the inning.

The New York Times - Sports

Ledee hit into a double play.

The New York Times - Sports

Posada eventually hit into a double play.

The New York Times - Sports

Piazza then bounced into a double play.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a double play" primarily in the context of baseball or, metaphorically, to describe situations where two objectives are achieved simultaneously. Ensure your audience understands the baseball reference.

Common error

Avoid using "a double play" in contexts unrelated to sports or achieving two goals at once, as it may confuse readers. Make sure the metaphorical extension is clear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a double play" functions primarily as a noun phrase, typically within a descriptive narrative of a baseball game. Ludwig AI examples show its usage in detailing specific in-game actions and outcomes.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a double play" is a common noun phrase primarily used in the context of baseball to describe a play where two outs are recorded. As highlighted by Ludwig AI, it functions descriptively, often within sports narratives. The phrase maintains a neutral register and is frequently found in news and media sources. While primarily a sports term, it can be used metaphorically to describe situations where two objectives are achieved efficiently. When using the phrase, ensure the context is clear and appropriate for your audience.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

two outs in one play

Focuses on the outcome of the play, highlighting that two outs were achieved simultaneously.

twin killing

A baseball slang term for a double play, offering a more colorful and concise alternative.

two-out play

Emphasizes the effect of getting two outs, but it is less specific about the action itself.

defense secures two outs

Shifts the focus to the defensive team's action and success in achieving two outs.

fielding maneuver resulting in two outs

A more descriptive and formal way of expressing a double play, suitable for technical contexts.

getting two runners out

Simplifies the description to the basic action of eliminating two runners.

recording two outs on a single play

Highlights the efficiency of achieving two outs in one sequence.

swift defensive action for two outs

Emphasizes the speed and efficiency of the defensive play.

a timely double play

Emphasizes that the double play happened at a critical point in the game.

crucial double play

Emphasizes that the double play was pivotal for the game's outcome.

FAQs

How is "a double play" typically used in a sentence?

"A double play" is usually part of a sentence describing a baseball game event where two outs are recorded in one play. For example, "The shortstop turned "a double play" to end the inning."

What does "a double play" mean 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 quickly throwing to different bases to get two runners out.

Can "a double play" be used metaphorically?

Yes, "a double play" can be used metaphorically to describe a situation where two objectives are achieved with a single action. This usage borrows from the baseball term, implying efficiency and dual success.

Which is correct, "double play" or "a double play"?

Both "double play" and "a double play" are correct, but they are used in slightly different contexts. "A double play" is used when referring to a specific instance of the play, while "double play" can be used more generally to describe the concept.