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Hat-trick

UK //ˈhæt.trɪk// US //ˈhæt.trɪk// Pronunciation

Definition

A player achieving three goals or successful plays in a single game.

Listen to definition

In simple words: When a player achieves three successes in a row.

Examples

• The forward scored a hat-trick in the championship match.
• He celebrated his hat-trick with his teammates.
• Scoring a hat-trick is a remarkable achievement for any player.
• In cricket, a bowler can also achieve a hat-trick by taking three wickets in three consecutive balls.
• The athlete made a hat-trick of wins in consecutive tournaments.

Usage notes

Often used in sports contexts; less common outside sports. Avoid in formal writing unless contextually appropriate.

Grammar pattern

noun

Memory hint

Think of a magician pulling three rabbits out of a hat; that's a hat-trick!

Collocations

• score a hat-trick
• achieve a hat-trick
• complete a hat-trick
• record a hat-trick
• notch a hat-trick

Synonyms

• triple
• threefold
• threesome
• trio
• triplet

Common mistakes

• Used incorrectly to describe any achievement, not just three in a row.
• Misunderstood as relating to tricks or magic rather than accomplishments.
• Confused with 'trick shot' in sports.