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

After all that dazzle, Kelter then gifted England a third try, dropping the ball for flanker Brock to pounce for a first Test try, which was followed by a sharp finish from Matthews.

From BBC • Sep. 29, 2024

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