full toss
LowSpecialised, colloquial (when metaphorical)
Definition
Meaning
A delivery in cricket where the ball reaches the batter without bouncing.
Can be used metaphorically to describe something presented directly and without obstruction or modification, making it easy to deal with.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
In cricket, it can be a bowling error (a 'tossed-up' ball) or a deliberate delivery. Metaphorically, it implies an easy target or straightforward proposition.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Primarily a British/Commonwealth cricket term. In American English, it is rarely used or understood in its literal sense.
Connotations
In the UK/Commonwealth, it carries immediate sporting associations. In the US, if used, it is purely metaphorical and rare.
Frequency
High frequency in UK/Commonwealth sporting contexts; very low to zero in general American English.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
The bowler bowled a [ADJECTIVE] full toss.He dispatched the full toss for [RESULT].Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It was a full toss of a question (metaphorical).”
Usage
Context Usage
Everyday
Used metaphorically in casual speech, e.g., 'The interview question was a full toss.'
Technical
Used in cricket commentary, analysis, and coaching.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- The bowler made a mistake and bowled a full toss.
- She hit the full toss over the boundary.
- Capitalising on a stray full toss is crucial for a top-order batter.
- The presenter's soft question was a metaphorical full toss, which the politician easily hit for six.
- Analysts criticised the bowler's inability to avoid delivering full tosses at the death overs.
- The negotiator, recognising the full-toss concession from his opponent, secured a decisive advantage.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine a ball tossed FULLY through the air, never touching the TOSS-ed ground.
Conceptual Metaphor
EASY TARGET IS A BALL THAT DOESN'T BOUNCE (PROBLEMS ARE PITCHED BALLS)
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Do not translate as 'полный бросок'. It is a specific cricket term.
- The metaphorical use has no direct Russian equivalent; paraphrase is needed.
Common Mistakes
- Confusing with 'full pitch' (same thing).
- Using in non-cricket contexts without explanation.
- Spelling as one word: 'fulltoss'.
Practice
Quiz
In which sport is the term 'full toss' primarily used?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Not always. While often a bowling error, a very well-disguised or sharply-paced full toss can sometimes take a wicket.
A full toss doesn't bounce at all. A half-volley bounces very close to the batter's feet, just as it pitches.
Yes, but only metaphorically, meaning an easy opportunity or question. This usage is informal and most common in cricket-playing nations.
Generally, no, unless they are familiar with cricket. The metaphorical use is extremely rare in American English.