key hits

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "key hits" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to significant or important points, events, or achievements, often in the context of performance metrics or highlights. Example: "The report highlighted the key hits from the last quarter, showcasing our most successful campaigns."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

46 human-written examples

Key hits, key home runs.

The New York Times - Sports

Offensively, the Astros repeatedly failed to produce key hits.

The New York Times - Sports

The key hits were two-run singles by Lopez and Barkley.

The New York Times - Sports

"They got some key hits — quickly," said Burnett, who blamed poor location.

The New York Times - Sports

Ortiz was in the middle of all of that, often tormenting the Yankees with key hits.

The New York Times - Sports

"We couldn't get the key hits, and they were able to".

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Once again, Ibanez delivered the key hit.

The New York Times - Sports

Aybar then followed with the key hit.

The New York Times - Sports

The key hit was a two-run homer by Fidel Rodriguez.

The New York Times - Sports

But they were able to get that key hit".

The New York Times - Sports

The key hit was Derek Jeter's single off David Price (12-5), which broke a 3-3 tie.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing pivotal moments in a sporting event, use "key hits" to underscore the importance of specific offensive plays that significantly contributed to the outcome.

Common error

Avoid using "key hits" in situations where "significant achievements" or "crucial moments" would be more appropriate. The phrase is strongly associated with baseball and similar sports; using it outside this domain can sound awkward or unclear.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "key hits" functions primarily as a noun phrase, where "key" acts as an adjective modifying "hits". As Ludwig AI confirms, it identifies specific, impactful instances of successful batting, especially in baseball.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

35%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "key hits" is a noun phrase primarily used in sports, particularly baseball, to denote impactful offensive plays that contribute significantly to a team's success. Ludwig AI states that the phrase is usable in written English. It is grammatically correct and frequently found in news and media contexts. While generally neutral in register, its sports-specific connotation should be considered when used metaphorically in other domains. Related phrases include "crucial moments" and "pivotal plays", but these may lack the direct association with sports that "key hits" carries.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

impactful plays

Highlights plays or actions that have a notable effect on the game or situation.

crucial moments

Focuses on the timing and significance of events, applicable in broader contexts beyond sports.

pivotal plays

Emphasizes the actions that drastically change the course of a game or situation, often implying strategic importance.

game-changing actions

Highlights actions that significantly alter the outcome, suitable for various competitive scenarios.

critical successes

Shifts the focus to positive outcomes that are essential for overall achievement.

significant achievements

Broadens the scope to encompass accomplishments of considerable value or impact.

important breakthroughs

Highlights moments of significant progress or discovery, commonly used in scientific or technological contexts.

defining moments

Refers to events that shape the identity or direction of something, whether an individual, team, or organization.

decisive blows

Implies a forceful action that determines the outcome, often used in competitive or combative settings.

vital contributions

Focuses on the essential contributions made by individuals or elements to a collective effort.

FAQs

How is "key hits" typically used in sports reporting?

In sports reporting, "key hits" usually refers to significant offensive plays, particularly in baseball, that substantially contribute to a team's success or victory. It highlights moments where players deliver crucial runs or advance bases at critical junctures.

What are some alternative phrases for "key hits" in a business context?

In a business context, instead of "key hits", consider using terms like "significant achievements", "critical successes", or "major milestones" to denote impactful accomplishments.

Can "key hits" be used in contexts other than sports?

While "key hits" is primarily associated with sports, particularly baseball, it can be used metaphorically in other contexts to describe crucial or pivotal moments. However, it's essential to ensure the metaphor is clear and appropriate for the audience and subject matter.

What is the difference between "key hits" and "pivotal plays"?

"Key hits" specifically refers to offensive plays in sports that significantly contribute to scoring or advancing runners. "Pivotal plays", on the other hand, is a broader term that can encompass any action, offensive or defensive, that drastically changes the course or outcome of a game or situation.