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throw somebody a curveball
[throw] {sb} a curve ballto throw somebody a curveball
01
to introduce a surprising or unexpected element or challenge into a situation
![to [throw] {sb} a (curveball|curve) definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/46139/original/?type=jpeg "to [throw] {sb} a (curveball|curve) definition and meaning")
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "throw someone a curveball" and when to use it?
The idiom "throw someone a curveball" originates from baseball, where a curveball is a pitch that suddenly changes direction as it approaches the batter, making it challenging to predict and hit. This expression is often used when someone is faced with a situation that catches them off guard or requires them to adapt quickly.
Example
The reporter threw the candidate a curve by asking about his past drug use.
During the presentation, the unexpected technical issue threw the speaker a curveball.
