How Do You Spell TAKE GUARD?

Pronunciation: [tˈe͡ɪk ɡˈɑːd] (IPA)

The phrase "take guard" is commonly used in cricket to refer to a batsman taking up his position at the crease. The word "take" is pronounced as /teɪk/ in IPA, with the "a" sound similar to the "a" in "say." The word "guard" is pronounced as /ɡɑːd/ in IPA, with the "a" sound similar to the "a" in "car." Together, the phrase is pronounced as /teɪk ɡɑːd/, with the stress on the second syllable of "guard." It is important for players and commentators to know the correct pronunciation for effective communication during a match.

TAKE GUARD Meaning and Definition

1. "Take guard" is a cricket term that refers to the act of a batsman positioning himself in a particular spot near the batting crease before facing a delivery from the bowler. This is commonly done at the beginning of an innings, after a fall of wicket, or when a new bowler comes into play.

   When a batsman takes guard, he does so to determine his stance and the positioning of his feet relative to the stumps, which assists him in judging the line and length of the ball more accurately. Taking guard allows the batsman to establish a reference point from which he can better anticipate and respond to the bowler's delivery.

   To take guard, a batsman typically taps the ground with his bat near the crease, indicating to the umpire the spot where he wishes to stand. This enables the umpire to adjust the position of the stumps accordingly. However, it is not always necessary for a batsman to take guard, particularly in limited-overs forms of cricket.

   The act of taking guard is crucial as it influences a batsman's balance, positioning, and subsequent shot selection. It helps the batsman to align himself correctly and adapt to the conditions of the pitch. By taking guard in their preferred position, batsmen increase their chances of playing effective shots and defending their wicket against the bowler's attack.

Etymology of TAKE GUARD

The phrase "take guard" does not have a specific etymology as a standalone concept. However, the word "take" comes from the Old English word "tacan", which means "to grasp" or "to capture". Meanwhile, the word "guard" traces its origins to the Old French word "garder", which means "to watch" or "to protect". "Take guard" is a combination of these two words, which refers to assuming a protective or defensive position in various contexts, such as in sports like cricket or fencing, or in military maneuvers.

Idioms with the word TAKE GUARD

• take guard To be prepared or be watchful in anticipation of potential danger or difficulty.