Word: Strikeout
Part of Speech: Noun
Basic Definition: A "strikeout" occurs in baseball when a batter receives three strikes during their turn at bat, meaning they are out and do not get to run to first base.
Usage Instructions:
Example Sentence:
Advanced Usage:
In a more advanced context, "strikeout" can refer to a situation where someone fails to achieve their goal or meet expectations, not just in sports but in various life scenarios. For example: - "After three failed attempts to get the job, he felt like he was facing a strikeout in his career."
Word Variants:
Strike (verb): To get a strike against a batter.
Strikes (plural noun): Refers to the number of strikes a batter receives.
Struck out (verb, past tense): Indicates that a batter has already received three strikes.
Different Meanings:
In Baseball: The primary meaning, as described above.
In a Broader Sense: Referring to failing in attempts to achieve something (e.g., "He struck out in his job search").
In Informal Use: Sometimes used to describe a failed romantic encounter (e.g., "I asked her out, but I struck out").
Synonyms:
Out (in the context of baseball)
Failure (in a metaphorical context)
Miss (in terms of not achieving something)
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
"Strike out on your own": To leave a situation and start something new independently, often referring to starting a business or a new life phase.
"Strike out at something": To attempt something but fail, similar to the metaphorical use of "strikeout."
Summary:
"Strikeout" is mainly a baseball term, but it can also be used in everyday language to describe failure or unsuccessful attempts.