bat back

Meanings

1. 1verbtransitive

   To hit a ball or similar object so that it goes back toward the person or place it came from.

   Grammar: Takes an object: bat the ball back. The object can go between the verb and 'back': bat it back.

   Patterns

   • bat something back
   • bat back something
   • bat something back to someone

   The goalkeeper batted the ball back into play.

   She batted the balloon back over the net.

   He batted back the return with a quick flick of the wrist.

2. 2verbtransitivefigurative

   To reply to a question, criticism, or idea quickly and often sharply.

   Grammar: Takes an object, often a comment or question: bat back a question. It suggests a quick, sometimes defensive response.

   Patterns

   • bat something back
   • bat back something

   She batted back every question the reporter asked.

   He batted the criticism back at his critics.

   The senator batted back the accusation with a smile.

Word forms

Common combinations

bat the ball back

The player batted the ball back across the court.

bat back a question

The teacher batted back the student's question without hesitation.

bat something back and forth

They batted ideas back and forth for an hour.

bat back a criticism

The manager batted back the criticism calmly.

Synonyms and how they differ

return

More general; it means send or hit something back, but does not always suggest a quick, bat-like motion.

hit back

Often means retaliate physically or verbally; 'bat back' is more specific to hitting an object or replying quickly.

Word family

bat verb

To hit with a bat or as if with a bat.

Commonly confused: bat back or batted?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “bat back”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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