Take your eye off the ball Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Sports Origin The phrase originates from sports and keeping focused on the ball. An outfielder can't afford to take their eye off the ball. Pro Tip 2/3Figurative Use It's often used metaphorically to discuss focus in non-sport situations. You took your eye off the ball when you ignored the client's concerns. Pro Tip 3/3Negative Outcome Losing focus can lead to mistakes or negative consequences. The project failed because the team took their eye off the ball.