Send to the locker room Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To force a player to leave the field or court and go to the locker room, usually as a punishment for breaking the rules or misbehavior in sports.
Usage & Nuances
Mostly used in sports contexts, especially team games. Implies punishment or ejection before the game ends. Not used outside of sports. Common collocations: 'The referee sent him to the locker room', 'was sent to the locker room for fighting'. Not the same as 'benched', which means not allowed to play but still stays with the team.
Example Sentences
The coach sent him to the locker room after he argued with the referee.
basic
Two players were sent to the locker room for fighting on the field.
basic
If you break the rules, you might be sent to the locker room.
basic
The fans booed when the star forward was sent to the locker room for a late hit.
natural
He was so frustrated after being sent to the locker room that he refused to talk to reporters.
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Coaches rarely send players to the locker room unless something really serious happens.
natural