Strikes: meaning, definitions and examples

In baseball, a 'strike' happens when a batter swings and misses the ball, or when they do not swing at a good pitch. It is also used in bowling when all pins are knocked down in one throw.

• He got three strikes in a row and was out.
• She bowled a strike and high-fived her teammates.

In baseball, an 'out' occurs when the batter or runner is removed from play after a defensive play.

• With two outs already, the team needs to play carefully.
• He made an out by catching the fly ball.

Used generally, 'misses' means failing to hit or catch something. It can be used in sports, daily life, or metaphorically.

• He misses the ball again and needs more practice.
• She misses her friend who moved away.

Used mainly in baseball to describe a complete miss of the ball with a swinging motion. It has a slightly informal and negative connotation.

• He took a big swing but only whiffed the ball.
• His whiffs were becoming more frequent, concerning the coach.

When workers collectively refuse to work to demand better conditions, pay, or other benefits. Often associated with unions and large-scale negotiations.

• The company faced numerous strikes over the summer due to unresolved labor disputes.
• Teachers are planning a strike next week to protest low salaries.

A general term that refers to public demonstrations or expressions of objection, which can include, but not is limited to, labor-related issues. It can involve various methods of showing discontent including rallies, marches, or sit-ins.

• Thousands took to the streets in protest against the new law.
• The employees organized a protest outside the headquarters to demand better working conditions.

A sudden and unplanned collective action where workers leave their workplace as an immediate form of protest, often used to show solidarity or as a strong statement.

• The entire production line staged a walkout after learning about the pay cuts.
• There was a walkout during the meeting when the workers' demands were ignored.

A broad term that includes not only strikes but other forms of collective worker actions like work slowdowns or overtime bans. Used in a formal or legal context.

• The union announced industrial action in response to the management's refusal to negotiate.
• Prolonged industrial action has severely disrupted the transport network.

Used in more formal or specific contexts, often referring to hitting with a certain force or in sports like baseball. It can also refer to workers stopping work to protest.

• The boxer delivered three powerful strikes to his opponent.
• The workers decided to go on strike for better wages.

General term for making physical contact with something or someone with force. It is the most versatile and can be used in many contexts, including accidents, sports, or intentionally hurting someone.

• He hit the ball out of the park.
• She accidentally hit her elbow on the door.

Commonly used in a more general context to indicate hitting or defeating someone or something. It can mean repeated hitting or winning over someone.

• The drum beat can be heard from miles away.
• She beat him in the chess tournament.

Often used informally to describe hitting someone with an open hand. It can imply a sharp, quick, and sometimes playful or reprimanding action.

• She gave him a smack on the back for a job well done.
• He smacked the mosquito on his arm.