bring the ball

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bring the ball" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is being asked to physically carry or transport a ball to a specific location. Example: "During the game, please remember to bring the ball to the field before the match starts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

He'd bring the ball back to training.

The Guardian - Sport

He can even bring the ball up court sometimes.

The New York Times - Sports

You've got to bring the ball in high.

The New York Times - Sports

"He can bring the ball up the court, and from there he becomes a mismatch.

The New York Times - Sports

"He can bring the ball down and get 5 yards or he can get 70 yards".

The New York Times - Sports

"The school used to bring the ball team here to play the inmates," he said.

The New Yorker

The bup and the bully, while formed, can bring the ball forward.

Independent

I used to bring the ball up and look to my left for Aaron.

The New York Times

You've got to be short, and you've got to make him bring the ball down.

The New York Times - Sports

That way we know he's going to bring the ball back to the defense".

The New York Times - Sports

"Like when we started, I kept forgetting to bring the ball in".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When instructing someone to "bring the ball", be specific about the destination to avoid ambiguity. For example, say "bring the ball to the center of the field" instead of just "bring the ball".

Common error

Avoid using "bring the ball" when a more specific action is intended. For example, instead of saying "he needs to bring the ball", specify "he needs to dribble the ball up the court" or "he needs to pass the ball to the forward".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bring the ball" primarily functions as a verb phrase that expresses the action of transporting or delivering a ball. Ludwig's examples indicate its common usage in sports contexts and general instructions. As Ludwig AI indicates, the phrase is considered correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Wiki

29%

Encyclopedias

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Science

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "bring the ball" is a common and grammatically sound verb phrase used to instruct or request someone to transport a ball. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. It appears frequently in various contexts, particularly in news, wiki, and sports-related content. While alternatives like ""fetch the ball"" or ""carry the ball"" exist, the specific choice depends on the desired nuance and context. When using the phrase, ensure clarity by specifying the destination. Avoid overgeneralization by using more precise verbs when applicable.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

fetch the ball

This alternative is a more informal way of saying "bring the ball", often used when instructing a pet.

carry the ball

This alternative emphasizes the act of carrying, highlighting the mode of transportation.

deliver the ball

This alternative suggests a more formal or official transfer of the ball.

take the ball

This alternative is a more general term, focusing on the act of taking possession and transporting the ball.

transport the ball

This alternative is a more technical or descriptive term, highlighting the act of moving the ball from one place to another.

get the ball

This alternative is a simpler and more direct way of asking someone to obtain and move the ball.

pass the ball

This alternative refers to the action of transferring the ball to another player, typically in a team sport.

roll the ball

This alternative specifies the method of moving the ball, indicating it is rolled rather than carried.

kick the ball

This alternative specifies the method of moving the ball, indicating it is kicked rather than carried.

handle the ball

This alternative focuses on the act of controlling and manipulating the ball with one's hands.

FAQs

How can I use "bring the ball" in a sentence?

You can use "bring the ball" in a sentence to instruct someone to carry or transport the ball to a specific location. For example: "Can you please "bring the ball" to me?" or "He needs to "bring the ball" back to the center circle after each goal."

What are some alternatives to "bring the ball"?

Some alternatives to "bring the ball" include "fetch the ball", "carry the ball", "deliver the ball", or "take the ball" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "brought the ball"?

Yes, "brought the ball" is the past tense of ""bring the ball"" and is grammatically correct. For example, "He "brought the ball" to practice yesterday" is a correct sentence.

What's the difference between "bring the ball" and "take the ball"?

"Bring the ball" usually implies bringing it to the speaker or a specified location, while ""take the ball"" implies moving it away from the current location or to another unspecified location. The context determines which phrase is more appropriate.