basketball
word
Definition
A sport in which two teams try to score points by throwing a ball through a high net called a basket. The word can also mean the ball used in this sport.
Usage & Nuances
Usually uncountable when talking about the sport: 'I play basketball,' not 'a basketball.' Countable when meaning the ball: 'Pass me the basketball.' Common collocations: 'play basketball,' 'basketball court,' 'basketball team,' 'basketball player.'
Example Sentences
My brother plays basketball after school.
basic
We need a new basketball for the game.
basic
They watch basketball on TV every weekend.
basic
I used to play basketball, but now I mostly just follow the playoffs.
natural
The park gets crowded when people start playing basketball in the evening.
natural
I'm terrible at basketball—I can never make a shot.
natural