IDIOMS
World of sports
IN ENGLISH, THE BUSINESS WORLD DRAWS SIGNIFICANT INSPIRATION FROM THE WORLD OF SPORTS, WHICH IS REFLECTED IN MANY COMMONLY USED EXPRESSIONS. WE HAVE COMPILED A LIST OF OVER 130 SUCH EXPRESSIONS, COMPLETE WITH EXPLANATIONS AND EXAMPLES.
CURVEBALL.
The term "curveball" is frequently used in the business world, especially in informal conversations or more relaxed professional environments. It refers to an unexpected event or surprising development that disrupts plans and requires a quick response or adjustment.
The expression originates from baseball, where a curveball is a pitch that sharply changes direction as it nears the home plate, catching the batter off guard. It's a difficult pitch to hit-particularly when the batter is expecting something more straightforward. This element of surprise is what gives the term its figurative meaning in everyday language.
Here are a few examples of this expression being used in a business setting:
We had the entire team assembled for the presentation in Toronto, but the client threw us a curveball by rescheduling the meeting at the last minute.
The interview process had been completed, but the board threw us a curveball when they announced that only one position would be filled instead of two.
We just found out that the building where our office is located has been sold. It's a real curveball, especially since our lease is up for renewal next month.
