English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Have a ball

Meaning

The idiom "have a ball" means to have a great time or enjoy oneself. It can also mean to attend or participate in an event or activity that is enjoyable, such as a party or concert. The figurative meaning of the idiom is usually used when someone is about to do something they are looking forward to, and implies that they will have a good time doing it.

Usage

  • "I can't wait for the weekend – we're going to have a ball at the beach party on Saturday!"
  • "I heard the concert last night was amazing – I wish I could have been there to have a ball with everyone else!"
  • "I'm really looking forward to this vacation – we're going to have a ball exploring all the sights and sounds of Paris!"
  • "I've always wanted to go skydiving – I hope we can have a ball together someday!"
  • "I was so glad I decided to attend the wedding – it was such a fun night, and I had a ball dancing with everyone!"

Roots and History

The idiom "have a ball" dates back at least to the early 20th century in American English, although its exact origin is unclear. It may have originally referred to the idea of throwing or tossing someone into a group or activity, as if they were being "balled" in by their peers. Over time, the idiom has come to simply mean having a good time or enjoying oneself. There are no known regional variations of this idiom.

Synonyms in English

  • Have a blast
  • Have a great time
  • Enjoy oneself
  • Have a good time
  • Have fun

Synonyms in other languages

  • In Spanish, "tener una buena fiesta" or "tener un buen tiempo" can be used to mean having a good time or enjoying oneself.
  • In French, "avoir une bonne soirée" or "avoir un bon temps" can be used for the same meaning.
  • In German, "haten einen guten Abend" or "haten ein gutes Zeit" can also mean having a good time or enjoying oneself.
  • In Italian, "avere un bell'evento" or "avere una buona notte" can be used to convey the same message.
  • In Chinese, "有一场快乐的时光" or "一个愉快的时光" can mean having a good time or enjoying oneself.

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