passing shot

American  

noun

Tennis.

1. a shot played to one side of and beyond the reach of an opponent coming to or stationed at the net.

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passing shot British  

noun

1. tennis a winning shot hit outside an opponent's reach

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Etymology

Origin of passing shot

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

passing shot

Federer had a first set point at 6-5, Nadal a championship point at 7-6, and another at 8-7 following a stunning passing shot, but Federer eventually forced a fifth set after 18 points.

From BBC ● Jun. 18, 2026

The 22-year-old took the second opportunity, with a rasping passing shot forcing a deciding set.

From Barron's ● Nov. 11, 2025

Djokovic rushed the net behind his serve, and while Medvedev had an opening for a backhand passing shot he did not come through.

From Washington Times ● Sep. 10, 2023

This isn’t like basketball, where you are surrounded by teammates, or tennis where the other player hits a passing shot from 30 feet away.

From Los Angeles Times ● Dec. 6, 2022

Nor can you meet a net attack successfully unless you can drive, as that is the only successful passing shot.

From The Art of Lawn Tennis by Tilden, William (Bill) Tatem