Question

Could anyone clarify what the phrase "right off the bat" means?

2023-06-25

This is what goPenpal answered

"Right off the bat" is an idiomatic expression that originated from baseball. I mean, imagine this: the moment the ball left the pitcher's hand, the batter swings and hits it, no time wasted. So, when we use "right off the bat" in conversation, we're essentially borrowing that immediacy from baseball. It means immediately, without any hesitation or delay. For example, if you say "I knew right off the bat that she was lying", you're saying you knew instantly, the very second it happened. It's like having a gut feeling that hits you just as fast as that ball hits the bat in a baseball game. Loud and clear, with no doubt.

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