match points

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "match points" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts such as sports, games, or discussions about scoring or comparisons. Example: "In the final round, the players were tied, and the match points determined the winner."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tsonga saved two match points.

The New York Times

Two match points.

The Guardian - Sport

Another two match points.

The Guardian - Sport

Plus 170 was worth 32.5 match points.

The New York Times

Plus 100 gained only 9 match points.

The New York Times

The auction was typical of match points.

The New York Times

Two match points are saved!

The Guardian - Sport

40-15, two match points.

The Guardian - Sport

And earn two match points.

The Guardian - Sport

Federer had two match points, at 5-4.

The New Yorker

Overtricks are vital, yielding valuable match points.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When discussing a specific instance in a game, use "match points" to highlight the critical nature of those points in determining the outcome. For broader discussions, consider using phrases like "critical moments" or "decisive plays".

Common error

Avoid using "match points" interchangeably with general scoring terms. "Match points" specifically refer to points that can directly lead to winning a match, not just any point scored.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "match points" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to the specific points in a game or competition that, if won, will result in victory. As Ludwig AI explains, it's grammatically correct and usable in written English. Examples from Ludwig showcase its use in sports news and bridge.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Formal & Business

20%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "match points" is a grammatically sound noun phrase frequently used to denote critical junctures in sports and bridge. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and offers numerous examples of its usage in reputable sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While primarily found in news and media contexts, it also appears in formal and business settings. When writing, remember that "match points" refer specifically to points that can win a match, not just any point scored, and you can use synonyms like "game-deciding scores" to add variety to your writing. By understanding its function, purpose, and register, you can effectively use "match points" to enhance your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

game-deciding scores

Focuses on scores that are directly responsible for determining the game's winner.

crucial points

Highlights the importance of specific points within a game.

championship points

More specific, implying points that decide a championship.

clinching scores

Focuses on scores that secure a win.

pivotal moments

Emphasizes moments of significant impact on the outcome.

game-winning opportunities

Focuses on the opportunity aspect rather than the specific scoring term.

winning shots

Highlights specific actions that lead to winning.

decisive moments

Highlights the importance of the moment, less specific to scoring.

final scores

Refers to the concluding results determining the match outcome.

critical junctures

Emphasizes a turning point in the game or competition.

FAQs

How are "match points" typically used in sports commentary?

In sports commentary, "match points" are used to highlight the critical moments when a player or team is one point away from winning a match. This creates excitement and emphasizes the high stakes of the situation.

What's the difference between "set point" and "match points"?

"Set point" refers to a point that, if won by the leading player, will win them the set. "Match points", on the other hand, refer to a point that will win the entire match.

Can "match points" be used in contexts other than sports?

While primarily used in sports and games like bridge, "match points" can metaphorically refer to any situation where a final, decisive action is about to determine the outcome of a competition or negotiation.

What can I say instead of "saving match point"?

Instead of "saving match point", you could say "averting defeat", "avoiding match loss", or "extending the match". The best alternative depends on the specific context.