Ballgame: meaning, definitions and examples

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ballgame

[ˈbɔːlɡeɪm ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

sports

A game played with a ball, typically involving two teams competing against each other to score points by getting the ball into the opponent's goal or by hitting the ball with a bat.

Synonyms

competition, match, sport.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ballgame	Used to refer specifically to a game of baseball. Commonly used in conversations about baseball or when attending a baseball event. We're going to the ballgame on Saturday. Did you see last night's ballgame? It was intense!
sport	Refers to a physical activity or game involving skill in which an individual or team competes against another or others for entertainment. It's used to discuss general categories of physical activities. Football is my favorite sport. She's very talented in many sports, especially swimming and gymnastics.
match	Commonly used in the context of sports, especially when referring to games like soccer, tennis, and cricket. It indicates an organized contest between two parties. The soccer match between Brazil and Argentina was thrilling. He won the tennis match in straight sets.
competition	Used in general contexts to refer to any event or situation where individuals or teams compete against one another. It can be used in sports, academics, business, and other fields. The competition for the science fair is really tough this year. She trained hard for the dance competition.

Examples of usage

The baseball game was intense, with the home team winning by a narrow margin.
She enjoys watching basketball games with her friends on weekends.
Playing soccer is his favorite ballgame to stay active and fit.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

informal

An event or situation that is exciting, challenging, or full of action.

Synonyms

adventure, challenge, experience.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ballgame	Used when talking about organized sports with rules and teams, like baseball or football. It can also mean a situation that is different or more complicated than what came before. Let's go to the ballgame this Saturday! Getting this new software to work is a whole new ballgame.
challenge	Used when talking about something that tests someone's abilities or requires effort to overcome. Often carries a sense of difficulty but also opportunity for growth. Completing the marathon was a big challenge for him. She loves taking on new challenges at work.
experience	Used to describe knowledge or skill that comes from direct participation or personal involvement in events over time. Can refer to both positive and negative events. She has a lot of experience in marketing. Traveling to different countries is a valuable experience.
adventure	Applied when referring to an exciting or unusual experience, often involving risk or uncertainty. It can also describe going on interesting trips or activities. We went on an adventure to explore the mountains. Starting a new business can be quite an adventure.

Examples of usage

The political campaign turned into a real ballgame with unexpected twists and turns.
Starting a new business is a whole new ballgame that requires dedication and hard work.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'ballgame' first appeared in English in the 19th century, connecting to various sports played with balls.
The origin is linked to traditional games that used balls, developing into modern sports we enjoy today.

Sports Culture

In America, baseball is often referred to as 'the ballgame', reinforcing its cultural significance.
The phrase 'it's not over until the fat lady sings' illustrates the unpredictability often found in ballgames, emphasizing that anything can happen.

Psychology

Participating in ballgames can enhance teamwork and improve social skills, creating a sense of belonging.
Watching a game can trigger strong emotional responses, showcasing the connection between fans and their favorite teams.

Literature

In literature, ballgames often symbolize broader themes such as competition, perseverance, and community ties.
Famous novels and stories frequently use ballgame metaphors to explore struggles and victories in life.

Pop Culture

Ballgames are often depicted in movies to capture the spirit of sportsmanship, like in 'Field of Dreams' and 'A League of Their Own'.
The term has been popularized in music and slang, indicating a situation or matter being discussed, e.g., 'It's a whole different ballgame.'

Translations

Translations of the word "ballgame" in other languages:

🇵🇹 jogo de bola

🇮🇳 गेंद का खेल (gend ka khel)

🇩🇪 Ballspiel

🇮🇩 permainan bola

🇺🇦 гра з м'ячем

🇵🇱 gra w piłkę

🇯🇵 ボールゲーム (bōrugēmu)

🇫🇷 jeu de balle

🇪🇸 juego de pelota

🇹🇷 top oyunu

🇰🇷 볼 게임 (bol geim)

🇸🇦 لعبة الكرة (lu'bat alkurah)

🇨🇿 hra s míčem

🇸🇰 hra s loptou

🇨🇳 球类游戏 (qiú lèi yóuxì)

🇸🇮 igra z žogo

🇮🇸 boltaleikur

🇰🇿 доп ойыны (dop oyyny)

🇬🇪 ბურთის თამაში (burtis tamashi)

🇦🇿 top oyunu

🇲🇽 juego de pelota