Phrase guide

keep one's eye on the ball

verb · 1 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To maintain one's concentration fixed on one important theme.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic

Examples

  • 2006 Feb 18, Michael Holden quoting Sir Alan Sugar in The Guardian, You can call me Sir Al My ethos has always been to be very straight with people, tell it as it is. It doesn't often make people happy but I found that over a period of time it's better to be that way. So being straight, also being very focused on your objectives, keep your eye on the ball and not get deflected away from it.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

From general sporting advice to look at the ball when playing it, particularly a golf ball on the tee.