bowl a googly: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘bowl a googly’ mean?
The idiom "bowl a googly" refers to surprising or deceiving someone, typically in a conversation or situation. It originates from the game of cricket, where a "googly" is a deceptive spin bowling technique that can catch the batsman off guard.
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Curious Cricket Terminology
The idiom "bowl a googly" is commonly used in cricket and is believed to have originated in British English. This article provides an in-depth analysis of the meaning and origins of this idiom, along with its usage and cultural significance.
In cricket, "bowl a googly" refers to a specific type of deceptive bowling technique. A googly is a delivery where the ball spins in the opposite direction than what the batsman expects. It aims to confuse and deceive the batsman by changing the direction of the spin unexpectedly.
The term "googly" can be traced back to the late 19th century. It is believed to have evolved from the word "goggle," which means to turn one's eyes wide in amazement or surprise. This sense of surprise or confusion is reflected in the way the term is used in cricket.
The idiom "bowl a googly" is commonly used outside of cricket as well. It often refers to surprising or unexpected actions that catch people off guard. It implies taking someone by surprise or deliberately misleading them, similar to how a googly delivery confuses the batsman.
Additionally, "bowl a googly" can also describe situations where someone unexpectedly changes their stance in an argument, task, or negotiation. It suggests a subtle shift in strategy or approach that catches others off balance, just like a googly bowling delivery.
"Bowl a googly" can be related to the idiom "ground ball with eyes." The latter refers to a hit in baseball where the ball rolls on the ground and passes fielders to secure a base. Similarly, when someone "bowls a googly" in a figurative sense, they aim to catch others off guard with an unexpected action or statement, similar to how a ground ball with eyes surprises the fielders.
In addition to "ground ball with eyes," "bowl a googly" can also be related to the idiom "bowl of cherries." This idiom refers to a situation that is easy and enjoyable. However, just like a googly delivery in cricket, life can throw unexpected challenges our way. Therefore, using "bowl a googly" can subtly imply that things are not always as easy or enjoyable as they seem, just like a bowl full of cherries may have a hidden pit or two.
Lastly, "bowl a googly" can be related to the idiom "go to the bow-wows." This idiom refers to something or someone that is in a state of decline or deterioration. When a bowler "bowls a googly" in cricket, it often catches the batsman off guard and leads to their dismissal. Similarly, a situation or person can "go to the bow-wows" when unexpected actions or events cause a decline or deterioration in their circumstances.
"bowl a googly" is an idiom originating in cricket that has come to signify surprising or unexpected actions in various contexts. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century and its usage has extended beyond the realm of sports. While more commonly used in British English, the idiom is gradually gaining recognition among English speakers worldwide as cricket continues to grow in popularity.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *bowl a googly* can be used in a sentence:
- He bowled a googly, completely catching the batsman off guard.
- The politician's unexpected statement during the debate bowled a googly to his opponents.
- She thought she knew all the answers, but the last question bowled a googly and left her speechless.
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