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Match point

UK //mæʧ pɔɪnt// US //mæʧ pɔɪnt// Pronunciation

Definition

The point in a game that can lead to a player's victory.

Listen to definition

In simple words: A crucial situation in a game where a player can win.

Examples

• It was an intense final set, and she had the *match point* in her hands.
• He missed a crucial *match point* that would have won him the game.
• The crowd erupted as the player served for *match point*.
• In volleyball, the team scored on *match point* to win the tournament.
• She remained calm during the *match point*, focusing on her strategy.

Usage notes

Used mostly in sports contexts, 'match point' is appropriate in formal discussions about games. Avoid using it in non-sporting contexts.

Grammar pattern

noun + noun

Memory hint

Think of a match where the end point decides the winner.

Collocations

• serve for match point
• win the match point
• play at match point

Synonyms

• decisive point
• winning point
• game point

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'set point' - used in different stages of a game.
• Using in non-sport contexts - it should mainly relate to competitive games.