B1noun2K

Rugby

UK /["/ˈrʌɡbi/"]/US /["/ˈrʌɡbi/"]/

Definition

a game played by two teams of 13 or 15 players, using an oval ball which may be kicked or carried. Teams try to put the ball over the other team’s line.

In simple words: A team sport where two teams try to carry or kick a ball over a goal line.

Examples

  • to play a game of rugby
  • Kids from six years old play mini rugby at the club.
  • a rugby club/match/player/team
  • the Ireland rugby captain
  • In rugby circles, there is nothing but criticism for the coverage of sport on terrestrial TV.
  • The crowd enjoyed the Fijians' running rugby.
  • the former rugby international, Serge Blanco

Usage notes

Used in contexts related to sports and games. Suitable for both casual and formal discussions but may be less appropriate in non-sporting contexts.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a 'rug spin' when the ball is thrown in the air.

Collocations

  • amateur
  • professional
  • competitive
  • game
  • play
  • watch
  • scrum
  • tackle
  • club
  • Rugby League
  • Rugby Union

Synonyms

  • football
  • gridiron
  • contact sport

Antonyms

  • soccer
  • football (American)

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'football' — 'rugby' is different from American football.
  • Mispronunciation of 'rugby'; some learners may stress the wrong syllable.
  • Using 'rugby' to refer to a type of sport instead of the specific game.