a level playing field
A fair situation where everyone has an equal chance of succeeding.
Example: New rules were introduced to create a level playing field for small businesses.
A212 words · Elementary
Sport Idioms vocabulary — A2
Sport idioms borrowed for everyday and office language, with phrases like get the ball rolling, call the shots and on the ball for describing action and control.
12 questions
Words in this set
12play fair
To behave honestly and follow the accepted rules.
Example:
The coach always reminds the kids to play fair.
call the shots
To be in charge and make the important decisions.
Example:
In this company, the founder still calls the shots.
the ball is in your court
It is now your turn to act or make a decision.
Example:
I've made my offer — the ball is in your court now.
on the ball
Alert, quick to notice things, and good at reacting fast.
Example:
Our new assistant is really on the ball.
get the ball rolling
To start something, or make something begin to happen or make progress.
Example:
Let's get the ball rolling on the new project today.
beginner's luck
Unexpected success by someone doing something for the very first time.
Example:
She won her first game of chess — pure beginner's luck.
play by the rules
To behave honestly and follow accepted standards, whether in a game or in life.
Example:
If everyone plays by the rules, the competition stays fair.
off to a good start
Beginning well, with early signs of success.
Example:
The team is off to a good start this season.
a good sport
Someone who accepts losing, jokes or unfair treatment gracefully, without complaining.
Example:
Even after losing, he was a good sport about it.
team spirit
The feeling of working together well as a group.
Example:
There is more team spirit in that office than in most clubs.
in the running
Still having a chance of winning.
Example:
Two of them are still in the running for the job.
