field a ball

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "field a ball" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in the context of sports, particularly baseball or cricket, to describe the action of catching or stopping a ball that is hit or thrown. Example: "The outfielder was able to field the ball cleanly and make a quick throw to second base."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

"Stand like a shortstop about to field a ball," he said.

The New Yorker

Jaret Wright's back locked up as he tried to field a ball in practice Sunday.

The New York Times

He walked two batters, including the leadoff hitter, and committed an error when he fell down trying to field a ball.

The New York Times - Sports

But in the third inning, Reyes wiped out rounding first base, and in the seventh he slipped at short while trying to field a ball.

The New York Times - Sports

But it's important to remember that A-Rod has yet to swing a bat or field a ball on the Yankees' behalf.

The New York Times - Sports

ST. LOUIS — Right fielder Lucas Duda, who crashed into the wall in right-center field in the first inning while attempting to field a ball hit by Albert Pujols, began experiencing dizziness and was removed in the third.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Fielding a ball usually means moving the defender into position with one joystick, then using buttons to throw.

The New York Times - Sports

Defensively, he helped snuff a Yankees rally in the fourth inning of Game 4 by fielding a ball in the hole and forcing out Robinson Cano at third.

The New York Times - Sports

And when he hit Jeter, it was on the same finger Jeter injured while fielding a ball in the night game of Saturday's doubleheader.

The New York Times - Sports

I walk out of the door and I support it". Brown said he has successfully encouraged one idea that was considered taboo: fielding a ball backhanded.

The New York Times - Sports

Then in the second, again with the bases loaded, Peralta fielded a ball that had deflected off the wrist of pitcher Doug Fister and beat Robinson Cano with the throw at first.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "field a ball" when you specifically want to describe the act of a player catching or stopping a ball during a baseball or similar sporting event. It implies skill and readiness.

Common error

Avoid using "field a ball" in contexts where a general term like "catch" or "handle" would be more appropriate. The phrase is specific to sports.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "field a ball" functions as a verb phrase, typically used to describe the action of catching or stopping a ball, particularly in sports contexts. Ludwig confirms this usage through numerous examples in sports-related articles.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Encyclopedias

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "field a ball" is a verb phrase primarily used in sports, particularly baseball, to describe the act of catching or stopping a ball. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and frequently appears in news and media contexts. While not overly formal, it's a specific term best used when describing defensive plays in sports. Alternatives include "catch a ball" or "stop a ball", depending on the specific nuance you wish to convey. Remember to avoid using the phrase in contexts unrelated to sports where more general terms would suffice.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Catch a ball

Focuses on the action of securing the ball in one's hands.

Stop a ball

Emphasizes preventing the ball from advancing.

Retrieve a ball

Highlights the action of getting the ball, often after it has moved some distance.

Snag a ball

Implies a quick or impressive catch.

Glove a ball

Specifically refers to using a glove to catch the ball.

Handle a ball

Describes general interaction with the ball, not necessarily catching it.

Intercept a ball

Focuses on stopping a ball intended for someone else.

Defend against a ball

Highlights preventing a ball from reaching a specific point or area.

Control a ball

Emphasizes maintaining possession or direction of the ball.

Play a ball

Refers to generally participating in a game involving a ball.

FAQs

How can I use "field a ball" in a sentence?

You can use "field a ball" to describe a player's action in sports like baseball, for example, "The shortstop expertly "fielded a ball" hit sharply to his left".

What are some alternatives to "field a ball"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "catch a ball", "stop a ball", or "retrieve a ball".

Is it correct to say "field for a ball" instead of "field a ball"?

No, "field for a ball" is not a standard or correct usage. The correct phrase is "field a ball", which means to catch or stop a ball, especially in sports.

What does it mean to "cleanly field a ball"?

To "cleanly "field a ball"" means to catch or stop it without making any errors or mistakes. It implies a smooth and skillful action.