Lateralling Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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lateralling

[หˆleษชtษ™rษ™lษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

sports terminology

Lateralling refers to the act of passing the ball sideways or backward to a teammate in a game, particularly in American football. It allows players to maintain possession and create opportunities for advancing the ball without the risks associated with forward passes. The lateral pass is not considered a forward pass, and both players have the option to run with the ball. Mastering the technique of lateralling can significantly change the dynamics of a play and can be crucial for successful offensive strategies.

Synonyms

handing off, passing, throwing.

Examples of usage

  • He executed a perfect lateral to his teammate.
  • The quarterback decided to lateral the ball instead of throwing it downfield.
  • During the scramble, he managed to lateral it to a receiver.
  • The players practiced lateraling to improve their coordination.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Sports

  • In football, lateralling enables a team to retain possession while navigating defenses more strategically.
  • Laterals can be risky; if not executed correctly, they can lead to turnovers and loss of possession.

Education

  • In group activities, lateralling encourages teamwork, as players must communicate and anticipate each otherโ€™s movements.
  • Educators use the concept of lateralling to introduce lateral thinking, where students solve problems through unconventional approaches.

Psychology

  • Thinking laterally is associated with creativity; it involves generating ideas by viewing problems from various sides.
  • This approach contrasts with linear thinking, which is more focused and straightforward.

Cultural References

  • Lateralling appears in various forms of media, including films and literature, often signifying a shift in perspective or strategy.
  • During team sports, successful lateralling plays are frequently featured in highlight reels, celebrated for their excitement and unpredictability.

Origin of 'lateralling'

Main points about word origin

  • Derived from the Latin word 'lateralis,' meaning 'of the side,' which has influenced various languages.
  • The term was popularized in sports, particularly American football, where it signifies a sideways pass.

The term 'lateral' originates from the Latin word 'lateralis', which means 'of or belonging to the side'. In sports contexts, especially in American football, lateralling is a strategy that has evolved alongside the game's development. The concept of passing the ball sideways or backward plays a critical role in the game's tactical aspects, allowing teams to innovate offensive plays. As football grew in popularity throughout the 20th century, so did various strategies involving laterals, and it became an essential part of the sport's vocabulary. Today, the term is widely recognized not only in football but also in various sports where lateral movement or passes occur.