a hard ball

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a hard ball" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where you are referring to a physical object, such as a sports ball, or metaphorically to describe a tough or uncompromising approach in a situation. Example: "In negotiations, he always plays a hard ball, making it difficult for others to reach an agreement."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

38 human-written examples

A hard ball.

The New Yorker

"It's a bit like throwing a hard ball and then a soft ball," said a spokesman for Mr Obuchi.

The Economist

There is a lot of bending at the waist to control a hard ball with a curved stick.

The New York Times

12.10am BST Giants 1 - Reds 1, Bottom 4th Hanigan hits a hard ball, but it's right to Marco Scutaro.

The Guardian - Sport

Players use a hard ball, weighing 2 1/2 to 3 oz (71 to 85 g) and measuring 7 1/2 in.

Encyclopedia Britannica

If a hard ball is rolling on a level surface, the ball is somewhat flattened and the level surface somewhat indented in the regions in contact.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

22 human-written examples

But a shorter hitter might go for a harder ball, which spins less but goes farther.

The New York Times

He hits a harder ball, I was told by Martina Navratilova, with whom he won a U.S. Open mixed-doubles title.

The New Yorker

This change no doubt led to the substitution of a harder ball, which made possible a larger-scale game.

Encyclopedia Britannica

In part, that's because until the last 15 years or so, Americans played a different version of the game, one that employed a harder ball and smaller court.

The New York Times - Magazine

If it was to give bowlers a harder ball it also did the same for batsmen, which meant it travelled to the fence with more alacrity.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing sports equipment, ensure the context clarifies the sport to avoid ambiguity (e.g., "a hard ball for cricket" vs. "a hard ball for baseball").

Common error

Avoid using the phrase "a hard ball" literally when a metaphorical meaning is intended; instead, opt for clearer expressions like "a tough stance" or "uncompromising tactics" for improved clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a hard ball" functions primarily as a noun phrase, acting as a subject or object within a sentence. Ludwig shows that it describes a physical object, often in the context of sports, as a literal reference. It can also function metaphorically to describe a firm and determined approach to something.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Encyclopedias

14%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Science

9%

Formal & Business

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a hard ball" is a common noun phrase with both literal and metaphorical applications. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically sound and frequently used in various contexts, predominantly in sports-related news and encyclopedic entries. Literally, it describes a type of ball used in games like baseball and cricket. Metaphorically, it refers to an uncompromising approach, as in "playing hard ball". The analysis indicates a neutral register and consistent usage across authoritative sources like The New York Times and Encyclopedia Britannica.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a firm ball

Emphasizes the solidity of the ball, similar to 'hard' but with a slightly different nuance.

a solid ball

Focuses on the density and lack of hollowness, conveying a similar level of firmness.

a dense ball

Highlights the high mass per unit volume, implying resistance to deformation.

an unyielding ball

Stresses the ball's resistance to pressure or force.

a rigid sphere

Replaces 'ball' with a more formal term 'sphere', emphasizing the geometrical shape and inflexibility.

a toughened ball

Indicates that the ball has been made stronger and more resistant.

a compact ball

Emphasizes the tightly packed nature of the ball's material.

a resistant ball

Highlights the ball's capacity to withstand external forces or impact.

a sturdy ball

Indicates the ball is well-built and robust, suggesting durability and hardness.

an inflexible ball

Emphasizes the inability of the ball to bend or change shape easily.

FAQs

How is "a hard ball" used in sports contexts?

In sports, "a hard ball" refers to the type of ball used in games like baseball, cricket, or rounders, distinguishing it from softer alternatives. Examples can be found in articles from "The New York Times" and "The Guardian".

What does it mean to "play hard ball" in negotiations?

To "play hard ball" means to be uncompromising and aggressive during negotiations, aiming to secure the most favorable outcome, which is explained more in "Huffington Post" and "TechCrunch".

Which sports use "a hard ball"?

Sports that typically use "a hard ball" include baseball, cricket, rounders, and rackets, as detailed by "Encyclopedia Britannica".

Can I use "a firm ball" instead of "a hard ball"?

While "a firm ball" can sometimes be a suitable alternative, it may not always convey the same level of rigidity or resistance as "a hard ball", depending on the context. It depends if you want to focus on the solidity rather than the hardness.