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.

“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

“A tipped ball here or there, a receiver dropping the ball into someone’s hands, that happens all the time.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 6, 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

He said cancellation rates were below 2% and pushed back against airline executives who have said the FAA is dropping the ball because of a lack of air traffic controllers.

From Washington Times • Jul. 2, 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