Thesaurus.com
Dictionary.com

dropping the ball



Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

“They’re working so hard to get into college, and they’re dropping the ball on what I think is the most important thing, which is finding your people,” Addicks said.

From The Wall Street Journal May 8, 2026

I don't think Wilder will need to do the same and I don't anticipate him dropping the ball against Parker.

From BBC Dec. 21, 2023

And Saturday, it was UW linebacker Alphonzo Tuputala dropping the ball one yard shy of the end zone in what would have been a pick-six.

From Seattle Times Nov. 11, 2023

SNUB: Rap It’s an annual tradition to point fingers at the Grammys for dropping the ball when it comes to hip-hop.

From Los Angeles Times Nov. 10, 2023

It doesn’t seem nice to rub it in, especially since the next few times, Alan doesn’t get more than seven or eight touches before dropping the ball.

From "Zara’s Rules for Record-Breaking Fun" by Hena Khan




Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Dictionary.com's Learning Companion

Go beyond just looking up words.
Remember them forever with VocabTrainer.

Start training