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Showing results for tie-break. Search instead for oil-break.

tie-break

British  
/ ˈtaɪˌbreɪkə /

noun

  1. tennis a method of deciding quickly the result of a set drawn at six-all, usually involving the playing of one deciding game for the best of twelve points in which the service changes after odd-numbered points

  2. any contest or game played to decide a winner when contestants have tied scores

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Example Sentences

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So just how exactly did such a dramatic tie-break unfold?

From BBC Jul. 9, 2026

"Honestly, during that tie-break, it was like a rollercoaster emotionally for me," said Muchova.

From BBC Jul. 9, 2026

It was fitting, then, that the match was decided with a tie-break, and from 4-1 down, Gauff somehow found a way to move level at 6-6.

From BBC Jul. 9, 2026

In a nervy start to the tie-break, Gauff shanked a second-serve return wide before snatching a backhand volley into the net.

From BBC Jul. 9, 2026

They were split by the fifth set, but as Djokovic pulled away in the tie-break, the fans chanted his name.

From BBC Jul. 7, 2026

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