cornhole

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "cornhole" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a lawn game in which players take turns throwing bags filled with corn kernels at a raised platform with a hole in it. Example: "We set up the cornhole boards in the backyard for the barbecue, and everyone had a great time playing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

31 human-written examples

Why couldn't he be grateful for all that Mom and Dad did for him, instead of — Cornhole the ear-cunt.

The New Yorker

"Do you guys order your pillows, or do you make them?" "They're from the game Cornhole," Adams said.

The New Yorker

The first semester was devoted to building the students' skills by making wooden boards for cornhole, a popular local game, which involved learning the basics of carpentry, graphic design and design software.

The New York Times - Arts

He pitched bean bags in a game of cornhole against 11-year-old Zachary Wymer, joking when a shot missed the board, "I missed trying to get the camera guy there," referring to a press photographer.

The New York Times

The brand Keystone Light has caught on to this and is hoping to win over beer and cornhole lovers alike with its own gimmicky version of the game: canhole, involving 18-, 24- and 30-can boxes with holes cut into them for an impromptu pickup game.

The New York Times

When not grooving to Huey Lewis, visitors can play foosball or cornhole, enjoy a beer after noon, or watch sports on a non-retro high-def television.

The New York Times

He flew back to New York with a cornhole set stowed in the luggage compartment of his Delta flight.

The New York Times

Its mainstay is fall and the football season, when cornhole is also known as "tailgate toss" (a name that might sound better to folks who prefer to avoid the rude double entendre).

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Remember the time everyone was laughing and riding and cornholing except Buster?

The Guardian - TV & Radio

If true, would it not have been even more therapeutic if McVeigh had got life, and every year or so, the 300 ticketed spectators gathered to eat popcorn and watch CCTV tape of Tim being cornholed by Spike and his buddies?

The Guardian

In 1982, Edmund White's "A Boy's Own Story" opened with a cornholing and, in 1988, Alan Hollinghurst rang nearly all the imaginable changes in "The Swimming-Pool Library".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about "cornhole", specify the context to avoid ambiguity, as it has a secondary, vulgar meaning. For example, use "playing cornhole" or "cornhole tournament".

Common error

Avoid using "cornhole" without providing context, especially in formal writing, as it can be misinterpreted due to its informal and vulgar slang meaning. Always clarify if you're referring to the game.

Linguistic Context

"Cornhole" primarily functions as a noun, referring to a specific lawn game. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its use in describing a game involving tossing beanbags at a target. In some contexts, it can also function as a verb, though this usage is less common and often considered vulgar.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Science

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "cornhole" is primarily used as a noun to refer to a popular lawn game, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. Although it has a secondary, vulgar meaning, its prevalent usage in news and media contexts relates to recreational activities. To avoid ambiguity, it's best to provide context when using the term, especially in formal settings. Alternatives like "bean bag toss game" or "bags game" can be used to ensure clarity. Despite its generally neutral register, awareness of its potential for misinterpretation is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

corn toss

Emphasizes the corn-filled bags used in the game.

bean bag toss game

Focuses on the core action of throwing bean bags, highlighting the game's fundamental mechanic.

baggo

An alternative name for the same game, common in some regions.

bags game

A simpler, more general term for the game, emphasizing the use of bags.

game of bags

Another way to refer to the game, focusing on the bags as the primary element.

outdoor beanbag game

Highlights the outdoor setting and the use of beanbags.

tailgate toss

Highlights the game's association with tailgating events.

backyard toss game

Emphasizes the casual, backyard setting where the game is often played.

lawn game

A broader category encompassing "cornhole" and other similar outdoor games.

beanbag target game

Focuses on the objective of hitting a target with beanbags.

FAQs

What is "cornhole"?

"Cornhole" is a lawn game where players toss beanbags at a raised platform with a hole in it. It's also known as "bean bag toss game" or "bags game".

What can I say instead of "cornhole" to avoid misunderstandings?

To avoid potential misunderstandings, you can use alternative terms like "bean bag toss game", "bags game", or "tailgate toss", especially in formal settings.

How do you play "cornhole"?

In "cornhole", players take turns throwing beanbags at a raised platform with a hole. Points are scored by landing bags on the platform or in the hole. The first player or team to reach a set number of points wins.

Is "cornhole" a family-friendly game?

Yes, "cornhole" is generally considered a family-friendly game, but be mindful of the context, as the term has an alternative, vulgar meaning. When playing with children or in formal settings, it's best to emphasize that you are referring to the "bean bag toss game".