audible

C1 · Advanced Countable noun Sports American English · Informal

n. a change to a plan made at the very last second, often used in sports or business.

n. a play called by the quarterback at the line of scrimmage to replace a previously briefed play; by extension, any last-minute tactical change.

“The manager called an audible and changed the presentation topic just before the meeting started.”

“Recognising the defensive shift, the quarterback called an audible, alerting his wide receivers to a change in their running routes.”

C2 · Proficiency Sports American English · Technical

v. to change a plan or a play at the last moment by shouting new instructions.

v. to signal a change in play at the line of scrimmage; used intransitively to describe the act of pivoting tactics verbally.

“The team had to audible when they saw the other players were ready for their first plan.”

“The veteran quarterback preferred to audible frequently, relying on his ability to read the opposing defense in the final seconds before the snap.”