on the ball meaning?

Question

What's the meaning of "on the ball" idiom? Please give me some examples!

Answer 1

 

Idiom Conjugations:

 

Answer 2

Gerund Form of the Idiom:

Being on the ball is a great way to be noticed at work.
 

Answer 3

Idiom Usage:

Use this idiom whenever the idea of quick response or being prepared is required.
 

Answer 4

Idiom Scenario 2:

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Reg is training a new employee to use the inventory control system at the warehouse where they work...

Reg's Boss:  "How's the new man doing?"
Reg:             "Really well.  I only need to show him each procedure one time and he understands right away."
Reg's Boss:  "The new man is really on the ball, then."
Reg:             "Absolutely!"

Answer 5

Idiom Scenario 1:

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Sally is giving a big presentation for a group of potential clients.  The presentation could lead to a business contract that will bring Sally's company a lot of money.  During the presentation, Sally notices that the potential clients are becoming bored and uninterested.  Sally quickly changes her presentation to make it more interesting to the clients.  The result is that the clients become interested and excited and give Sally's company a big contract. Sally was on the ball when she noticed the clients boredom and quickly switched her presentation.

Answer 6

Idiom Definition:

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"to be on the ball"

to be quick to understand
to be quick to react to situations usually due to being prepared
 

Synonyms: active, alert, alive, attentive, awake, bright, competent, knowledgeable, intelligent, observant, perceptive, quick, ready, sharp, vigilant, vital, watchful, wise
 
 

This baseball player is quick to assess the situation and reacts quickly by running to catch the ball.
He is literally on the ball.