keep eye on the ball

keep (one's) eye on the ball

To keep oneself very focused on something. Despite its wording, the phrase does not have to refer to baseball or another ball game. I graduated in just three years because I was able to keep my eye on the ball and prioritize my studies above all else.

See also: ball, eye, keep, on

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

keep one's eye on the ball

 

1. Fig. to watch or follow the ball carefully, especially when one is playing a ball game; to follow the details of a ball game very carefully. John, if you can't keep your eye on the ball, I'll have to take you out of the game. "Keep your eye on the ball!" the coach roared at the players.

2. . Fig. to remain alert to the events occurring around oneself. If you want to get along in this office, you're going to have to keep your eye on the ball. Bill would do better in his classes if he would just keep his eye on the ball.

See also: ball, eye, keep, on

McGraw-Hill Dictionary of American Idioms and Phrasal Verbs. © 2002 by The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.