on their game

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "on their game" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe someone who is performing at their best or is fully focused and engaged in an activity. Example: "The team was really on their game during the championship match, showcasing their skills and teamwork."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

The producers told the cast members to put on their "game faces".

The New York Times

Prepping for a summer of love, dating apps and services are putting on their game faces.

TechCrunch

When you've got one of the best in the game on their game, it's going to be tough".

The New York Times - Sports

He's the one who took care of me to make sure everyone was on their game".

Vice

It depends on their game.

The New York Times - Sports

"When they're on their game, they're unbelievable".

The New York Times - Sports

If they are on their game, it's lights out".

The New York Times - Sports

Today, athletes spend the off-season working on their game.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

3 human-written examples

Sitting in front of laptops, the students started in on their game-building, each one beginning with a blank screen.

The New York Times - Magazine

On their game-opening possession, the Vikings were moving smoothly.

The New York Times - Sports

After Terry Harris Jr.'s three-point play drew Coppin State (0-10) within 12-7, Tigersgers (5-2) toff onf on their game-breaking run.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "on their game" when you want to emphasize that someone is performing at their absolute best, showing focus, skill, and effectiveness. For example, "The team was really "on their game" during the championship match."

Common error

Avoid using "on their game" in contexts where a playful or unserious tone is intended. The phrase implies a high level of seriousness and competence. For example, avoid saying "They were "on their game" during the casual party."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "on their game" functions as an adjectival phrase describing a state of optimal performance or readiness. It is commonly used to indicate that someone is performing at their best. Ludwig AI confirms its use in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

63%

Science

20%

Wiki

6%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "on their game" is a versatile and widely used expression indicating peak performance, skill, and focus. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms that it's grammatically correct and frequently used across various contexts, particularly in news, media and science. While it maintains a neutral register suitable for professional use, it's essential to ensure the context aligns with its serious and competent implications. Remember to explore alternatives like "at their best" or "performing optimally" for slight nuances in meaning. Avoiding misapplication and understanding its intended scope will ensure you harness the power of "on their game" effectively.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

at their best

Focuses on the peak of ability rather than readiness.

at peak performance

Highlights the highest level of achievement possible.

performing optimally

Highlights the efficiency and effectiveness of the performance.

in top form

Emphasizes the physical or mental condition enabling good performance.

on top of things

Focuses on being in control and managing tasks effectively.

sharp and focused

Focuses on the mental acuity and concentration involved.

firing on all cylinders

An idiomatic expression suggesting maximum effort and efficiency.

in full swing

Suggests the activity is happening with great energy and momentum.

operating efficiently

Emphasizes the smooth and effective execution of tasks.

fully prepared

Highlights the readiness and anticipation for an event or task.

FAQs

What does it mean when someone is "on their game"?

Being "on their game" means someone is performing at their best, showing skill, focus, and effectiveness in what they are doing. It suggests a state of peak performance and readiness.

How can I use "on their game" in a sentence?

You might say, "The quarterback was really "at his best" and "on their game" during the Super Bowl", or "The sales team needs to be "on their game" to meet this quarter's targets".

What are some alternative ways to say someone is "on their game"?

Alternatives include "at their best", "performing optimally", "in top form", or "firing on all cylinders". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it appropriate to use "on their game" in formal writing?

Yes, "on their game" is generally acceptable in formal writing, especially in business or sports contexts. However, for highly formal or academic writing, consider using more precise alternatives like "performing optimally" or "at peak performance".