make solid contact

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "make solid contact" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used in contexts such as sports or physical activities to describe striking an object, like a ball, with precision and force. Example: "When hitting the baseball, it's crucial to make solid contact to ensure it travels far."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

"All you can do is try to make solid contact.

The New York Times - Sports

"I was just trying to make solid contact," Eckstein said of his first.

The New York Times - Sports

It really is just trying to make solid contact and use some of your feel".

The New York Times - Sports

Once the season began, Davis seemed to lose the ability to make solid contact consistently.

The New York Times - Sports

"What can you expect?" With the infield playing in, Tatis said he just wanted to make solid contact.

The New York Times - Sports

What did make solid contact was the shoulder of Lawes into the back of Paulino, an armless tackle of revenge.

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

34 human-written examples

He made solid contact on all 15 pitches.

The New York Times - Sports

Like Davis, Markakis made solid contact with a slider.

The New York Times - Sports

If he makes solid contact, he's going to hit home runs.

The New York Times

Piazza made solid contact and hit the ball right back up the middle, but the wrong guy was patrolling the mound.

The New York Times - Sports

He made solid contact, but he slipped on his follow-through, and his knees appeared to spin out of the shot.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When coaching or instructing in sports, use "make solid contact" to emphasize the importance of hitting the ball or object with the sweet spot of the bat, club, or racquet for maximum power and control.

Common error

Avoid using "make solid contact" in contexts where a more precise verb would be appropriate. Overusing the phrase can make your writing sound repetitive and less impactful. Instead, consider using verbs like "hit", "strike", or "connect" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "make solid contact" primarily functions as a verb phrase, describing the action of hitting or connecting with something in a firm and effective manner. Ludwig provides examples mostly from sports-related news, where the phrase describes athletes hitting a ball.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "make solid contact" is a common and grammatically correct verb phrase, particularly prevalent in sports contexts, as highlighted by Ludwig. It emphasizes the action of hitting or connecting with something firmly and effectively. While widely used, writers should avoid overuse and consider more precise verbs where appropriate. To diversify your language, alternatives like "connect firmly" or "strike cleanly" can be used. As confirmed by Ludwig, the phrase is generally acceptable and readily understood, making it a useful addition to your vocabulary.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

connect firmly

This alternative focuses on the strength and stability of the connection.

strike cleanly

This emphasizes the precision and lack of interference in the hit.

hit squarely

This highlights hitting the object from the center.

get a good hit

This relates to achieving a successful strike.

land a blow

Implies a forceful and effective strike.

achieve a firm connection

Highlights the act of establishing a strong link between two things.

establish sound linkage

Emphasizes creating a robust connection.

form a secure join

Focuses on creating a reliable and safe connection.

ensure stable contact

Highlights the element of making sure the contact is not shaky.

produce effective strike

Focuses on the production of a strong hit or impact.

FAQs

How can I describe successfully hitting a ball instead of saying "make solid contact"?

You can use phrases like "hit the ball cleanly", "connect firmly with the ball", or "strike the ball squarely" to describe the action.

Is it correct to say "made a solid contact" instead of "make solid contact"?

The phrase "made solid contact" is the past tense form of the verb phrase and is grammatically correct when referring to a past action. "Make solid contact" is used for present or future actions.

What does it mean to "make solid contact" in the context of sports?

In sports, to "make solid contact" means to hit the ball or another object with the optimal part of your bat, club, or other equipment, resulting in a powerful and accurate hit. It suggests a clean and effective connection.

Are there other ways to express the idea of a successful connection besides "make solid contact"?

Yes, depending on the context, you could say "achieve a firm connection", "establish sound linkage", or even use more general terms like "succeed in connecting".