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deuce

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /djuːs/

KK: /dus/

noun
Definition

A term used in games and sports to refer to the number two, often seen in dice or cards, and also used to describe a tied score in tennis.


Example

In tennis, the score was at deuce, meaning both players had 40 points each.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see that last tennis match?
Sloth B
Yeah, it was intense, especially when they got to deuce.
Sloth A
I know, right? It felt like it would never end!
Sloth B
Totally! They both played so well, it was a real battle.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
pair
duo
twosome
Antonyms
one
single
loss
transitive verb
Definition

To bring the score in a tennis game to a tie at 40-40, where a player must win two consecutive points to win the game.


Example

The player managed to deuce the game after a long rally.


Tense Forms

Past: deuced

Past Participle: deuced


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you see the last game? It was crazy how they managed to deuce so many times!
Sloth B
I know, right? It kept everyone on the edge of their seats.
Sloth A
I thought it was going to end in a tie after that last deuce.
Root Explanation

Deuce originates from Old French 'deus' (meaning two), which is derived from Latin 'duo' (meaning two). The term 'deuce' is often used in games to refer to the number two, particularly in card games and tennis.

Memory Tip

Think of the word 'deuce' as representing the number 'two' — it comes from the Old French word for two, helping you remember that 'deuce' means two.

Visually Confused Words
deduce
demulce
educe
dunce
duces
douce
deice
decke
Is this page helpful?
Sloth B
Me too! But the final point was just epic.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tie
equal
level
Antonyms
lead
win
lose