ON THE BALL Synonyms: 118 Similar and Opposite Words

on the ball

phrase

Definition of on the ball

as in alert

paying close attention usually for the purpose of anticipating approaching danger or opportunity The cops in this town are always on the ball.

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in suitable

having the required skills for an acceptable level of performance The new hire is really on the ball.

Synonyms & Similar Words

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of on the ball Unsurprisingly, no player has been involved in more passing sequences leading to shots than the 24-year-old this summer, given complete freedom to roam and dictate attacks with his abilities on the ball. — Thom Harris, New York Times, 4 July 2026 Adidas’s 1994 Predator added strips of rubber on the shoe’s toe, which provided extra grip that the company and players say translated to bigger, curvier bends on the ball. — Mack Degeurin, Popular Science, 2 July 2026 After Antonio Nusa scored the game’s first goal, Haaland had a chance to put Norway up 2-0 but couldn’t get enough power on the ball after it was deflected to find the back of the net. — Lawrence Dow, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 June 2026 Control boots are built for touch on the ball and clean finishing. — Vicki M. Young, Footwear News, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for on the ball

Recent Examples of Synonyms for on the ball

on the alert

Phrase

London noir is a rare subgenre — and an especially difficult one to pull off — but Michele Fiascaris’ debut Rain Catcher is a satisfying, seductively atmospheric addition to the canon that will keep even the most jaded of viewers on the alert.

— Damon Wise, Deadline, 6 July 2026

Definition of on the alert

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on the alert

on the ball

on the bias

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“On the ball.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/on%20the%20ball. Accessed 12 Jul. 2026.

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Synonyms of on the ball

phrase

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