ON THE BALL

{adj. phr.}, {informal} 1. Paying attention and doing things well. - Used after "is" or "get". * /Ben is really on the ball in school./ * /The coach told Jim he must get on the ball or he cannot stay on the team./ Compare: GET WITH IT, HEADS-UP, KEEP ONE'S EYE ON THE BALL. 2. That is a skill or ability; making you good at things. - Used after "have". * /John will succeed in life; he has a lot on the ball./ * /The coach was eager to try out his new team and see what they had on the ball./