Idiom idiom
on the ball
Meaning
Doing a good job
Examples
“You are really on the ball with your work today.”
“The new assistant is always on the ball and answers every email within ten minutes.”
“In such a fast-moving industry, you must stay on the ball to ensure that your competitors do not gain an advantage.”
Origin
disputed origin
disputed origin
From ball sports — 'keep your eye on the ball'; in baseball, a pitcher with skill was said to put 'something on the ball'.
Last updated June 7, 2026