Touch Base or Touch Bases? Let’s Not Strike Out!

Touch Base or Touch Bases? Let’s Not Strike Out!

Touch Base vs. Touch Bases: Understanding the Difference

The English language has many phrases that sound alike but have different meanings. Two such phrases are “Touch Base” and “Touch Bases.” Let’s explore the history, usage, and how to remember the difference between them.

History

“Touch Base” comes from baseball. In baseball, players need to touch the bases to score points. Over time, this phrase started to mean “to make contact” or “to check in” with someone.

“Touch Bases” is not a common phrase in English. It is often confused with “Touch Base” but does not carry the same meaning.

How to Use Them

Touch Base

We use “Touch Base” to mean talking or catching up with someone. It is often used in business to mean checking in about work.

• Example: “I need to touch base with my team about the project.”
• Example: “Let’s touch base tomorrow to discuss the plans.”
• Example: “Can we touch base later about the report?”
• Example: “I’ll touch base with you after the meeting.”
• Example: “Please touch base with her and get the details.”

Touch Bases

“Touch Bases” is not typically used. If you say this, people might think you made a mistake. The correct phrase to use is “Touch Base.”

• Example: “I need to touch bases with my team about the project.” (Incorrect)
• Example: “Let’s touch bases tomorrow to discuss the plans.” (Incorrect)
• Example: “Can we touch bases later about the report?” (Incorrect)
• Example: “I’ll touch bases with you after the meeting.” (Incorrect)
• Example: “Please touch bases with her and get the details.” (Incorrect)

Trick to Remember the Difference

The trick to remember is simple: “Touch Base,” not “Touch Bases.” Think of it as making contact with just one base in baseball. You don’t need to touch all the bases at once; one is enough.

Summary

“Touch Base” means to talk with someone or check in with them. It is from baseball and is a common phrase. “Touch Bases” is not used and is often a mistake. Always say “Touch Base” to sound correct.