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Sin-bin

UK //sɪn bɪn// US //sɪn bɪn// Pronunciation

Definition

A designated area for players serving temporary suspensions in certain sports.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A place where players go for a timeout in some sports.

Examples

• The player was sent to the sin-bin for misconduct during the match.
• In rugby, time in the sin-bin can change the course of the game significantly.
• After a rough tackle, he found himself in the sin-bin for ten minutes.
• Players dread spending too much time in the sin-bin, as it leaves their team short-handed.
• Coaches often remind players to avoid unnecessary fouls to stay out of the sin-bin.

Usage notes

Used primarily in sports contexts, especially in rugby and ice hockey. Not typically used in other contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone term

Memory hint

Imagine being sent to a 'sin' for a short 'bin' time due to a foul.

Collocations

• spend time in the sin-bin
• serve a penalty in the sin-bin
• sent to the sin-bin

Synonyms

• penalty box
• timeout area
• sin bin

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'penalty box', which is similar but used in different sports.
• Misused in non-sporting contexts where timeout is not applicable.
• Spelled incorrectly as 'sin bin', which changes the meaning.