on the second play

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on the second play" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to the second occurrence of a play, performance, or game in a sequence. Example: "On the second play of the game, the quarterback threw a touchdown pass."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Johnson, 25, was trying to grab Pittsburgh running back Jerome Bettis with one arm on the second play of the game when he tore the muscle.

The New York Times - Sports

Holiday was hurt on the second play.

The New York Times - Sports

On the second play, the freshman QB threw an interception.

The Guardian - Opinion

The tone was set on the second play from scrimmage.

The New York Times - Sports

On the second play, Mike DeFazio ran 8 yards.

The New York Times - Sports

"We're bunting in the first inning on the second play of the game," Leggett said.

The New York Times - Sports

Nebrich found Ajala for a 68-yard touchdown on the second play of the opening drive.

The New York Times - Sports

But is it going to be pass on the second play?

The Economist

On the second play from scrimmage, Virginia Tech quarterback Logan Thomas settled into the shotgun.

The New York Times - Sports

Spencer's blocked punt came on the second play of the final period.

The New York Times - Sports

Rison had a 54-yard touchdown catch on the second play of Green Bay's first series.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "on the second play", ensure it's clear what the first play was for context. For example, specify "on the second play of the game" or "on the second play of the drive".

Common error

Avoid using "on the second play" if the context doesn't establish a clear sequence of events. If there is any ambiguity, rephrase to clarify the order.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on the second play" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It indicates when an action occurred, specifying that it happened during the second play in a sequence. This is evident in Ludwig's examples, where it describes events in sports contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

74%

Wiki

24%

Academia

2%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "on the second play" is a common and grammatically sound construction used primarily to indicate the timing of an event within a sequence, especially in sports contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely accepted and frequently found in news and media sources. When using the phrase, ensure the context clearly defines the sequence being referenced. Alternatives like "after the first play" or "during the second attempt" can be used for variety, depending on the nuance you want to convey. Keep in mind that clarity is key, so avoid ambiguity regarding the sequence of events.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

after the first play

Specifies that the event occurs right after the initial play.

on the subsequent play

Uses a more formal word ("subsequent") to indicate the next play in order.

following the initial play

Emphasizes that the action comes directly after the first play.

in the next play

A more concise way of indicating the action that follows.

at the game's second play

More specific regarding the type of game.

in the second instance

Replaces "play" with a more generic term for an event, emphasizing the sequential nature.

during the second action

Substitutes "play" with "action", highlighting a specific deed or activity.

at the second opportunity

Focuses on having a chance or possibility to do something.

the second time around

Idiomatic expression indicating a repeated action.

during the second phase

Describes a part of a process or activity.

FAQs

How is "on the second play" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "on the second play" is usually used to describe an event or action that occurs during the second play of a game or sequence. For example: "On the second play, the quarterback threw a long pass."

What are some alternatives to saying "on the second play"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "after the first play", "during the second attempt", or "in the second instance".

Is it more formal to say "on the subsequent play" instead of "on the second play"?

Yes, "on the subsequent play" is more formal because the word 'subsequent' is more formal than 'second'. Both are grammatically correct, but the former is more suited to academic or professional writing.

What is the difference between "on the second play" and "after the first play"?

"On the second play" directly refers to the second play in a sequence, while "after the first play" emphasizes the sequence of events, highlighting that the action occurs following the first play. They are often interchangeable.