PhrasesHub

Step up to the plate

    Definitions

      • take responsibility
        To take on a challenge or task, especially when others are not willing to do so

      • perform well under pressure
        To rise to the occasion and perform effectively, especially in a challenging or difficult situation

    Examples of Step up to the plate

    • John is known for stepping up to the plate during crunch time, and his leadership has helped the team secure many victories.

      The phrase "stepping up to the plate" is a baseball analogy meaning to take on a significant role or responsibility, particularly in a crucial situation. In baseball, the batter, or hitter, steps up to the plate where they will face the pitcher and potentially hit the ball. In John's case, he takes on a leadership role and makes critical decisions during high-pressure times, similar to a batter facing a crucial pitch.

    • The company's new marketing executive, Sarah, has stepped up to the plate and spearheaded a successful campaign for our latest product.

      Here, "stepping up to the plate" signifies Sarah's proactive approach and proficiency in her role as a marketing executive. She has taken charge of a vital marketing project and executed it successfully, comparable to a skilled hitter knocking an important home run.

    • When our star player suffered an injury, it was up to Jane to step up to the plate and fill his shoes.

      The expression "stepping up to the plate" indicates Jane's ability to replace a crucial player, similar to how a batter would be inserted into the game to replace an injured player.

    • During the crisis, it was imperative that someone stepped up to the plate and took charge. Thankfully, we had Rachel, who rose to the challenge.

      In this example, "stepping up to the plate" refers to the need for somebody to assume an authoritative role during an unexpected situation. Rachel's bravery and leadership skills made her the ideal candidate to tackle the unexpected situation, similar to how a batter would answer the call to hit a crucial base.

    • Sarah stepped up to the plate when her team was down by two runs in the bottom of the ninth inning.

      This means that Sarah took responsibility and performed a crucial action at a crucial moment in the game to potentially win the game for her team. The phrase "step up to the plate" is a baseball reference, as it describes the action of a batter stepping into the designated area in front of home plate to hit the ball. In this context, it's used figuratively to mean taking a leading or decisive role in a situation, particularly when the situation is challenging or high-pressure.

    • After the company's CEO resigned unexpectedly, Maria stepped up to the plate and took over as interim CEO.

      This means that Maria accepted the responsibility and authority of leading the company in the absence of the former CEO. The phrase "step up to the plate" is being used metaphorically to emphasize Maria's quick and decisive action in a difficult situation. By taking this leadership role, Maria demonstrated her ability to handle pressure and assume responsibility.

    • When the team's star player was injured, James stepped up to the plate and became the team's primary scorer.

      This means that James filled the role of the injured player and consistently scored points for the team. The phrase "step up to the plate" is being used to describe James's willingness to take on a new and demanding responsibility in light of his team's need. By doing so, James showed his commitment to the team and his willingness to take on challenges.

    • John stepped up to the plate and volunteered to organize the company's charity drive.

      This means that John took initiative and agreed to lead the company's charity drive. The phrase "step up to the plate" is being used to emphasize John's willingness to take responsibility and his commitment to helping others. By volunteering to organize the drive, John demonstrated his leadership skills and his desire to make a positive impact on the company and the community.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "step up to the plate" can be used to encourage someone to take on a challenge or to perform well under pressure. It is often used in a motivational or supportive context, urging someone to take responsibility and rise to the occasion.

    Origin of "Step up to the plate"

    The origin of the idiom "step up to the plate" can be traced back to baseball. In baseball, the "plate" refers to home plate, where the batter stands to hit the ball. When a player steps up to the plate, it means they are taking their turn to bat and are ready to face the challenge of hitting the ball. Over time, the idiom has been adopted into everyday language to signify taking on a challenge or responsibility. It has come to represent the idea of being ready to perform under pressure, just as a baseball player must be prepared to hit the ball when they step up to the plate.