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Processed with VS1Borrow sports language for coordinated effort while distinguishing a strong push from pressure that crosses a line.
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Source: VOA Learning English · Words and Their Stories
View original article & transcriptA “game plan” is a strategy for reaching a goal. A “full-court press” is a very strong, coordinated effort, borrowed from an aggressive basketball defense; in everyday use, it may mean mobilizing people and resources on all sides of a problem. “Play to win” describes aiming to succeed. These sports expressions can be used outside sports, but “full-court press” may imply pressure as well as effort.
Cultural note: The source encourages an aggressive all-out approach, but that is not appropriate for every personal or workplace situation. A team can coordinate support without coercing the person it hopes to help. Use “game plan” for a strategy and reserve “full-court press” for situations where an unusually intense push is suitable.
Keep exploringA team can make a game plan for a goal—but check whether the “full-court press” is help or unwanted pressure.
Phrase guide · 4 expressions
Original explanations and examples, created for learners. Save a card for later or hear the phrase spoken by your browser.
Use a sports expression for an approach or strategy.
Meaning
A strategy for achieving a goal or handling a situation.
Tone & use
Common outside sports in work and everyday conversation. It can be casual or businesslike.
Example
“Before we call the venue, let’s make a game plan for the questions we need answered.”
Describe an intense group effort beyond the basketball court.
Meaning
An unusually strong and coordinated effort to achieve a goal.
Tone & use
Informal metaphor from basketball. It can suggest intense pressure; use it carefully when other people’s consent matters.
Example
“The volunteers made a full-court press to deliver winter supplies before the storm arrived.”
Meaning
A very strong attempt that uses substantial energy or resources.
Tone & use
A plain alternative to “full-court press.” Specify the goal and keep the effort proportionate.
Example
“The neighborhood made an all-out effort to reopen the library after the flood.”
Notice how a strong push can feel supportive or overbearing.
Meaning
Act with the aim of succeeding rather than participating casually.
Tone & use
Often used literally in sports or figuratively for a determined approach. It does not justify unfair or unsafe behavior.
Example
“The debate team wanted to play to win while still following the competition rules.”
Knowledge check
Choose the expression that best fits each situation.
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