out of bounds
/aʊt əv baʊndz/
adjective
- Outside the official playing area in a sport; not allowed by the rules.
- He stepped out-of-bounds before making the catch, so the play didn't count.
- The referee called the ball out-of-bounds, so the other team got possession.
- In golf, hitting the ball out-of-bounds costs you a penalty stroke.
- Not allowed or forbidden, especially by rules or social norms.
- Asking about someone's salary is considered out-of-bounds in polite conversation.
- The teacher made it clear that talking during the test was out-of-bounds.
- Certain topics are out-of-bounds during family dinners to avoid arguments.
- Beyond the limits of what is acceptable or appropriate.
- Using someone's private photos without permission is out-of-bounds.
- The prank was funny at first, but it quickly became out-of-bounds when it scared the kids.
- His comments during the meeting were completely out-of-bounds and offended many people.
Synonyms
adverb
- Into or to a position outside the official playing area.
- The player kicked the ball out-of-bounds on purpose to get a break.
- The quarterback threw the ball out-of-bounds to stop the clock.
- She ran out-of-bounds to avoid being tackled.