a set play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a set play" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of sports, particularly in basketball or soccer, to refer to a pre-planned play or strategy that a team executes during a game. Example: "The coach called for a set play to take advantage of the opposing team's weak defense."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

53 human-written examples

It looks like a set play".

The New York Times - Sports

Conceding goals … once again, a goal from a set play.

The New York Times

Rubio called a set play that put him in a precarious position underneath the hoop.

The New York Times - Sports

Howard jokingly said it was a set play called "12 Miss," referring to his uniform number.

The New York Times - Sports

In the 22nd minute, the United States scored again on a set play.

The New York Times - Sports

"That's a set play by New Jersey — picking so we can't get to Kovalchuk to block a shot".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

7 human-written examples

I don't think Norwich had a shot on goal which didn't come from a set-play.

The Guardian - Sport

Mulgrew, something of a set-play specialist, blasted in a third from a free-kick after Craigan upended Hooper.

The Guardian - Sport

"We played pretty well, had most of the ball and created chances - but it's typical, we haven't conceded a goal from a set-play for almost two years and now we've done it twice in one game.

Independent

We conceded a goal from a set-play but the second half was much better.

BBC

"We got done with a bit of a sucker punch just before half time from a set-play.

BBC

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing sports strategy, use "a set play" to clearly communicate a pre-designed tactic. To add variety, consider using related terms like "pre-planned play" or "designed play" for similar meanings.

Common error

Avoid using "a set play" in non-sports contexts where a more general term like "a plan" or "a strategy" would be more appropriate. Ensure the situation involves a pre-arranged sequence of actions.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a set play" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as the object of a verb or the subject of a clause. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it accurately describes a pre-arranged strategy. For example, "Rubio called a set play..."

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

95%

Wiki

3%

Science

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a set play" is a noun phrase widely used to describe a pre-planned strategy, primarily in sports contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and common usage. While generally neutral in tone, it leans towards informal. For formal contexts, alternatives like "pre-arranged strategy" might be more appropriate. Its frequency is considered very common, particularly in news and media reporting on sports. Remember to use it accurately, ensuring the context involves a deliberate sequence of actions. Be open to use phrases like "pre-planned play" or "designed play" to add nuance and variety.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pre-planned play

Emphasizes the planned nature of the play.

a designed play

Highlights the deliberate design of the play.

a tactical maneuver

Focuses on the tactical aspect of the play.

a strategic play

Emphasizes the strategic intent behind the play.

a rehearsed routine

Highlights the practiced nature of the play.

a choreographed sequence

Implies a higher level of precision and coordination.

a planned sequence of moves

More descriptive, breaking down the play into its components.

an established play

Suggests the play is well-known and frequently used.

a special play

Indicates the play is reserved for particular situations.

a practiced strategy

Highlights that the strategy has been practiced beforehand.

FAQs

How is "a set play" typically used in sports?

"A set play" refers to a pre-planned and practiced sequence of actions used in sports like basketball, soccer, and rugby to gain an advantage over the opposing team. Coaches often design "set plays" to exploit weaknesses in the opponent's defense.

What are some synonyms for "a set play"?

Alternatives to "a set play" include "pre-planned play", "designed play", "tactical maneuver", and "strategic play". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

In what sports is the term "a set play" commonly used?

The term "a set play" is frequently used in basketball, soccer, rugby, and American football to describe pre-arranged offensive or defensive strategies. These plays are often practiced extensively to ensure coordination and timing.

Is it appropriate to use "a set play" in a business context?

While "a set play" is primarily used in sports, it can be metaphorically applied to business to describe a pre-planned strategy or tactic. However, using terms like "pre-arranged strategy" or "prepared tactic" might be more suitable for a professional setting.