Throw the Game: Learn what the means through example!

What does “Throw the Game” mean?

"Throw the game" means to intentionally lose a game or competition.

What context can I use the in?

Example

The team decided to throw the game in order to secure a better draft pick.

Example

The coach was accused of instructing his players to throw the game for gambling purposes.

Example

The player was banned from the league for attempting to throw the game and manipulate the outcome

Is “Throw the Game” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Throw the Game” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Throw the Game” effectively in context?

You can use "Throw the Game" to describe the act of intentionally losing a game or competition. It implies that someone is deliberately manipulating the outcome for personal gain or other reasons. For example, if a friend asks why a team performed poorly in a match, you might say, 'It looks like they decided to throw the game to secure a better draft pick.'

• 1. Sports

  The team was struggling in the standings, so they made the controversial decision to throw the game and increase their chances of getting a higher draft pick.

• 2. Scandals

  The coach was involved in a betting scandal and was accused of instructing his players to throw the game for financial gain.

• 3. Cheating

  The player was caught attempting to throw the game by intentionally making mistakes and manipulating the outcome.

Similar phrases to “Throw the Game”:

Tank the game

To intentionally lose a game or competition

Example

The team decided to tank the game in order to improve their chances in the upcoming draft.

Fix the game

To manipulate the outcome of a game or competition for personal gain

Example

The referee was found guilty of trying to fix the game by making biased calls.

Throw in the towel

To give up or surrender in a competition or endeavor

Example

After a series of losses, the team decided to throw in the towel and withdraw from the tournament.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Throw the Game” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Throw the Game" is unknown.

Is “Throw the Game” common in everyday conversation?

The phrase "Throw the Game" is not as common in everyday conversation as some other idioms. It is more commonly used in discussions about sports, scandals, or cheating in competitions.

What tone does “Throw the Game” have?

"Throw the Game" conveys a tone of deception and dishonesty. It is often used to describe unethical behavior in sports or other competitive settings.

Can “Throw the Game” be used in informal and formal settings?

The phrase "throw the game" is more commonly used in informal conversations, especially when discussing sports or scandals. It may not be suitable for formal or professional settings.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The team decided to throw the game and secure a better draft pick.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They really threw the game!' to express disappointment or disbelief.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

• lose on purpose
• deliberately lose
• manipulate the outcome
• intentionally underperform

Antonyms

• compete fairly
• play to win
• give it your all
• perform at your best