How Do You Spell MATCHPOINT?

Pronunciation: [mˈat͡ʃpɔ͡ɪnt] (IPA)

The word "matchpoint" is spelled with a "ch" instead of a "tch" due to its origin from the French word "match" which means "game or contest". In IPA phonetic transcription, "match" is pronounced as /mætʃ/ with the "ch" sound to represent the "sh" sound in English. Therefore, "matchpoint" is spelled as /ˈmætʃˌpɔɪnt/ with the "ch" sound for consistency and to maintain the pronunciation of its root word. This subtle difference in spelling highlights the importance of understanding etymology and language history in language learning.

Meaning and Definition
Etymology
Basic Check Advanced Check

MATCHPOINT Meaning and Definition

  1. Matchpoint, in the context of sports and games, refers to a decisive point or period in a competition where victory can be secured by one of the participants. It commonly denotes a critical moment in various games, particularly those involving sets or rounds.

    In tennis, matchpoint signifies the final point needed to win the entire match. When a player reaches this pivotal moment, their successful execution of that point would grant them victory, while the opponent's failure to do so would result in their defeat. Similarly, in badminton and volleyball, matchpoint represents the last point needed to secure the win.

    In the sport of table tennis, matchpoint is associated with the final game point required to win the match, often distinguishing it from mere set points. This term also extends to other sports like squash, where it symbolizes the ultimate point that seals the win.

    Outside the realm of sports, matchpoint can also be used metaphorically to describe critical situations in various contexts. For instance, in business or investment, it denotes a key opportunity or make-or-break moment that could significantly impact a company's success or failure. Likewise, in relationships or romantic encounters, matchpoint represents a decisive juncture where a person's actions or decisions can lead to a potential positive outcome or disastrous consequences.

    Overall, matchpoint signifies the pivotal point at which a competition, game, or critical situation can be won or lost, encapsulating the suspense, pressure, and potential for triumph or defeat.

Etymology of MATCHPOINT

The term "matchpoint" is derived from the word "match" and the word "point".

The word "match" originated from the Old English word "gemæcca", which means "companion" or "mate". It initially referred to a pair or set of persons or things that were similar or equivalent. Over time, "match" came to be associated with contests or competitions between two individuals or teams that were of similar skill or ability.

The word "point" has Latin origins and can be traced back to the Latin word "punctum", meaning "a small hole or prick". In various contexts, "point" evolved to signify a specific moment, stage, or step in a process, as well as a critical or significant moment of decision or action.