Idiom #5: On the ball

On the ball

Meaning: To be ready, prepared, or alert

Example:

• Mark: Ok, today's lesson is a little tricky so I need you all to be on the ball today!
• Mark: Ok! Bob, name one country in Polynesia!
• Bob: Hawaii.
• Mark: Good. Lee, how about another country??
• Mark: Lee....LEE???
• Lee: zzz...zzz...zzz
• Bob: Oh no. Lee's not on the ball today.

This is how I remember Lee

Origin: This idiom comes from sports, most likely from Baseball. In sports, players should always keep their eyes on the ball so that they can catch or hit it better.

Comment below please!