kick the ball

USAGE SUMMARY

"kick the ball" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a variety of contexts, either literal or figurative. For example, you could write: "Michelle kicked the ball across the field and scored the goal!".

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

I'm here to kick the ball".

The New York Times - Sports

And Gary didn't quite kick the ball".

The New York Times - Sports

Players could capture, carry, and kick the ball.

Cornell University

I'd say, "I'd kick the ball over the fucking bar!

The Guardian - Sport

'B' was the Globetrotter, kick the ball in.

The New York Times

In handball, only the goalkeeper may kick the ball.

Encyclopedia Britannica

"But none of them can kick the ball".

The New York Times - Sports

"To get field position, they kick the ball a lot.

The Guardian - Sport

To not kick the ball straight out from kick-off.

The Guardian - Sport

They kick the ball away but then win it back.

The Guardian - Sport

"We will still kick the ball off Sunday," Collins said.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing actions in sports, use "kick the ball" to clearly and simply convey the act of propelling a ball with the foot. This phrase is universally understood and avoids ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using overly technical or convoluted language when "kick the ball" suffices. Simplicity enhances clarity in writing, especially when describing common actions.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "kick the ball" is as a verb phrase, where "kick" is the main verb and "the ball" is the direct object. It describes the action of propelling a ball with one's foot, as demonstrated by Ludwig's examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Wiki

30%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Science

10%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "kick the ball" is a grammatically correct and very common verb phrase used to describe the action of propelling a ball with one's foot. According to Ludwig, it is suitable for use in written English. The phrase has a neutral register and appears frequently in News & Media and Wiki sources. While simple, its meaning is clear and universally understood, making it a versatile option for describing this common action. It is best practice to use the phrase when simplicity and clarity are desired.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

strike the ball

Emphasizes the impact rather than the specific action of kicking.

boot the ball

A more informal and forceful way of saying "kick the ball".

punt the ball

Specifically refers to kicking a ball dropped from the hands, often in sports like football.

pass the ball with your foot

Highlights the method of passing, using the foot.

propel the ball with your foot

A more formal and descriptive way to say "kick the ball".

tap the ball with your foot

Suggests a gentle or light kick.

smack the ball with your foot

Suggests a stronger, more forceful kick, less controlled.

hit the ball with your foot

Generic term for using the foot to make contact with the ball.

nudge the ball with your foot

Implies a very light and controlled kick, almost a push.

send the ball flying

Focuses on the outcome of the kick—the ball's trajectory—rather than the act itself.

FAQs

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

You can use "kick the ball" in a sentence to describe the action of propelling a ball with your foot, such as "He ran up to the ball and kicked it with all his might".

What are some alternatives to "kick the ball"?

Some alternatives to "kick the ball" include "strike the ball", "boot the ball", or "punt the ball", depending on the context.

Is it always appropriate to use "kick the ball" in formal writing?

While "kick the ball" is generally acceptable, more formal alternatives like "propel the ball with your foot" may be preferred in academic or professional contexts where precision is important.

What is the difference between "kick the ball" and "hit the ball with your foot"?

"Kick the ball" is a more direct and common way to describe the action, while "hit the ball with your foot" is a more descriptive and less frequently used alternative.