What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
kicker
Example
The kicker made a game-winning field goal. [kicker: noun]
Example
The news about the company's bankruptcy was a real kicker. [kicker: noun]
Example
I like to add a little bit of ginger ale as a kicker to my cocktail. [kicker: noun]
curveball
Example
The pitcher threw a curveball that fooled the batter. [curveball: noun]
Example
The sudden change in management was a real curveball for the employees. [curveball: noun]
Example
He tried to throw me a curveball by changing the subject, but I stayed focused. [curveball: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Curveball is more commonly used than kicker in everyday language, especially in the context of unexpected events or challenges.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between kicker and curveball?
Both kicker and curveball are informal words that are more commonly used in casual conversation than in formal writing or speech.
