on the ball

phrase

1

: competent, knowledgeable, alert

… the other introductory essay … is much more on the ball.

—The Times Literary Supplement (London)

keep on the ball

2

: of ability or competence

… if the teacher has something on the ball, the pupils won't squirm much …

—New Yorker

Examples of on the ball in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Ampadu’s tenacity in the tackle, composure on the ball and his long throw — an emerging weapon — all contributed to the team’s strong showings. — Adam Crafton, New York Times, 18 Aug. 2026

Kamara landed on the ball in the end zone for a touchdown that pushed Indiana’s lead to 17-7. — Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 12 Aug. 2026

Albies is an excellent contact hitter, putting the bat on the ball, and driving the ball to the gaps. — Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 11 Aug. 2026

Rhymes for on the ball

• aerosol
• alcohol
• arbitral
• basketball
• butanol
• cannonball
• carbinol
• cortisol
• ethanol
• fireball
• gasohol
• gossypol