How Do You Spell OFF BREAK?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒf bɹˈe͡ɪk] (IPA)

Off break is a term used in cricket to define a type of spin bowling. It is pronounced as /ɒf breɪk/. The first part of the word "off" is pronounced with the short "o" sound as in "lot". The second part, "break", is pronounced with the long "a" sound, as in "cake". The IPA transcription accurately represents the precise sounds in the pronunciation of this term. Off break is a challenging delivery to face for a batsman, as it spins from the off-side to the leg-side, making it difficult to play.

OFF BREAK Meaning and Definition

1. "Off break" is a term used in the sport of cricket to refer to a type of delivery bowled by a spin bowler. It is a technique employed predominantly by bowlers who are right-handed and deliver the ball with their right hand.

   An off break occurs when the bowler imparts spin to the ball in such a way that it curves away from a right-handed batsman. This spin is achieved by releasing the ball with a particular finger grip and applying pressure on the seam in a specific manner. As the ball pitches on the cricket pitch, it grips the surface and turns from the off side towards the leg side, causing it to deviate from its original path.

   The off break is typically delivered by rotating the wrist and fingers in a clockwise direction for a right-handed bowler. This action generates a spinning motion on the ball, creating the off break effect. This delivery is aimed at deceiving the batsman, as the curving trajectory of the ball can make it challenging for them to accurately judge and play their shots.

   Off breaks are often employed by spin bowlers to exploit the batsman's weaknesses against turning deliveries. By angling the ball away from the right-handed batsman, the bowler aims to induce edges, force mistimed shots, or even dismiss the batsman through lbw (leg before wicket) decisions.

   In summary, "off break" is a cricketing term that describes a spin delivery by a right-handed bowler, where the ball curves away from a right-handed batsman after pitching.

Etymology of OFF BREAK

The term "off break" is a cricketing term that refers to a type of delivery bowled by a right-handed bowler that turns from the off side (right side of the batsman) to the leg side (left side of the batsman).

The etymology of the term can be understood by looking at the individual words. "Off" refers to the off side of the cricket field, which is the side opposite to where a right-handed batsman stands. It is derived from the Old English word "offa" meaning "opposite". "Break" refers to the movement or deviation of the ball from its normal straight path. It is the same word used in contexts like "breaking a record" or "breaking news".

So, "off break" essentially means a ball that breaks or turns from the off side to the leg side when delivered by a right-handed bowler.