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

"Returning serve and coming forward forces an opponent to come up with a passing shot straight off the return of serve," said Murray.

From BBC ● Jul. 8, 2026

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

From Barron's ● Nov. 11, 2025

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

A running, down-the-line backhand passing shot from Swiatek on the next point made it 2-0 in that set.

From Seattle Times ● Sep. 10, 2022

This passing shot at English society serves it right.

From Oscar Wilde, His Life and Confessions Volume 2 by Harris, Frank