ˈkɜːrvbɔːl
Sports
informal
intermediate
- Literally:
- a baseball pitch that curves unexpectedly
What does "curveball" mean?
an unexpected event or surprise that is difficult to deal with
Examples
- Life threw us a curveball when the company suddenly relocated.
- The final exam question was a real curveball — nobody expected it.
- Just when I thought everything was settled, the client threw me a curveball.
Origin
From baseball, where a curveball has spin that causes it to move unpredictably.
How to use it
Often used with 'throw.' Refers to unpleasant or challenging surprises.
Similar expressions
surprise
twist
wrench
spanner in the works
Related idioms
- no pain no gain
Success requires hard work and sacrifice
- ball is in your court
It's your turn to take action or make a decision
- like riding a bicycle
A skill that, once learned, is never forgotten
- drop the ball
To fail to do something important; to make a mistake
- level playing field
A situation where everyone has an equal opportunity
- on the ball
Alert and competent
Use it in a practice answer
Try "curveball" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.