Step up to the plate

Posted by Bob on May 14, 2006

In Reply to: Step up to the plate posted by Denise Williams on May 14, 2006

: What does "Step up to the plate" mean?

It's a term from baseball. The next batter to hit steps up to "home plate" where he prepares to receive the ball thrown by the pitcher. So the metaphor means take reponsibility because it's your turn to take action. for our UK friends, substitute batsman and bowler for better and pitcher, and there you are.

• Step up to the plate antiquary 14/May/06