Phrasal verbs with “Pitch” in English

The Meanings and Uses of “Pitch” in English

The word pitch in English has multiple meanings depending on the context. It can refer to an action, a state, or an object. Here are the primary meanings of pitch:

1. Angle or level — Used to describe the slope of a surface or the height of a sound.
   • The roof has a steep pitch.
2. Presentation — In a business context, pitch refers to a short, clear presentation of an idea, product, or service.
   • She delivered a convincing pitch to potential investors.
3. Throw or delivery — Used in sports contexts, such as baseball, when referring to throwing a ball.
   • The pitcher threw a fast pitch.
4. Musical note (pitch) — Refers to the frequency or height of a sound, determining whether it is high or low.
   • The singer has a perfect pitch.

Additionally, pitch functions as a verb and can mean “to throw,” “to set up” (e.g., a tent), or “to propose.” For example:

• They pitched their tent by the river.

In grammatical terms, pitch can be used as both a noun and a verb. The meaning shifts based on the context in which it is used. However, things get even more interesting when we consider phrasal verbs with pitch. Phrasal verbs often add additional meanings to the word pitch, which may not be obvious from simple translation.

Let’s explore the most common phrasal verbs with pitch, their meanings, and examples of their use in different situations.

Popular Phrasal Verbs with “Pitch” in English

Pitch in — To help or work together to achieve a goal.

Meaning: To work together with others towards a common goal or to contribute to a joint effort.

Example:
Everyone pitched in to clean up after the party.
If we all pitch in, we can finish the project on time.

Pitch out — To throw away or get rid of.

Meaning: To discard something unnecessary or to free oneself from something.

Example:
They decided to pitch out all the old furniture.

Pitch up — To show up or arrive.

Meaning: To arrive or show up somewhere, often unexpectedly or without prior notice.

Example:
He pitched up at my place late at night.

Pitch into — To criticize or attack someone verbally or physically.

Meaning: To harshly criticize someone or to start an aggressive action (either verbally or physically).

Example:
The manager pitched into the employees for missing the deadline.
Pitch for — To try to obtain or compete for something.

Meaning: To actively try to gain something or be chosen for a purpose.

Example:
He pitched for the position of team leader.

Pitch against — To oppose or compete with.

Meaning: To be set against someone in competition or opposition.

Example:
Our team was pitched against the champions in the finals.

Pitch to (someone) — To present or offer an idea.

Meaning: To present or try to sell an idea, product, or plan to someone.

Example:
She pitched the new marketing strategy to the board members.

Pitch over — To tip over or fall.

Meaning: To fall or flip over something.

Example:
The boat pitched over during the storm.

Idioms and Phrases with “Pitch”

The word pitch is also used in various idioms and phrases that carry figurative meanings. Let’s explore the most common ones:

1. Pitch-black — Extremely dark, like pitch.Meaning: Very dark or black, often used to describe something completely devoid of light.Example:
   It was pitch-black outside, and we couldn’t see a thing.
2. Pitch-perfect — Perfectly accurate or flawless.Meaning: Something done with absolute precision, without any mistakes. Often used to describe musical abilities or performances, but also for flawlessly executed tasks.Example:
   Her performance was pitch-perfect and impressed everyone.
3. Make a pitch (for something) — To give a presentation or try to sell something.Meaning: To carefully present an idea, product, or service to persuade someone to support or buy it.Example:
   The sales team made a strong pitch for the new product.
4. Pitch a fit — To become very angry or to throw a tantrum.Meaning: To get angry or express strong emotions, often over a minor issue.Example:
   She pitched a fit when she found out about the mistake.
5. Pitch in (one’s two cents) — To add one’s opinion or comment.Meaning: To share an opinion or comment, even if it might be minor or not very important.Example:
   He always pitches in his two cents during meetings.