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Double fault

UK //ˈdʌb.əl fɔːlt// US //ˈdʌb.əl fɑlt// Pronunciation

Definition

In tennis, a failure to serve correctly twice in a row.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A mistake in tennis where a player serves twice incorrectly.

Examples

• She lost the game after committing a double fault.
• His first serve was a mess, leading to a double fault.
• The crowd gasped when he made a double fault on match point.
• A double fault can change the momentum in a match.
• The player was frustrated after recording his second double fault of the set.

Usage notes

Used primarily in tennis contexts. The term is neutral but can imply frustration if used in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

double fault + subject

Memory hint

Think of 'double' as two mistakes on your serve in tennis.

Collocations

• commit a double fault
• double fault during a match
• avoid a double fault

Synonyms

• service error
• serve fault
• double mistake

Common mistakes

• Using 'double fault' outside of tennis context.
• Confusing it with 'fault' without 'double'.
• Mispronouncing the term or confusing it with similar phrases.