quarterbacking
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈkwɔːrtərˌbækɪŋ//
KK: /ˈkwɔrtərˌbækɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The action of leading a football team as the quarterback, or making decisions and strategies during a game.
Example
His quarterbacking skills helped the team win the championship.
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yeah, it was intense! I think the quarterbacking was a bit off at times.
I agree, especially in the second half.
Exactly! It felt like they missed a lot of opportunities.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
leadership
guidance
oversight
Antonyms
neglect
disorganization
chaos
verb
Definition
To lead or direct a team, especially in sports, particularly in American football, where one player makes plays and decisions during the game.
Example
The coach praised him for quarterbacking the team effectively during the championship game.
Tense Forms
Past: quarterbacked
Past Participle: quarterbacked
Conversation
Did you see the game last night?
Yeah, it was amazing! They really nailed their strategy.
I think the quarterback was great at quarterbacking under pressure.
Root Explanation
Quarterbacking → It is formed from "quarter" (from Old French *quart*, meaning a fourth part) and "back" (from Old English *bæc*, meaning the rear or back part) combined with the suffix "-ing" (indicating the action of). The term "quarterbacking" refers to the action of a quarterback in football, who is a player that directs the play from the back of the offensive formation, often making decisions and leading the team.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'quarter' as a fourth part and 'back' as the rear position — this helps you remember that 'quarterbacking' involves directing plays from the back of the offensive line.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.