Benched

The term 'benched' refers to the act of being sidelined or removed from a position of active participation, particularly in a sport or competitive setting. It can also denote a temporary state where an individual is not engaged in their usual role, often for reasons such as performance issues, strategic decisions, or disciplinary action.

Benched meaning with examples

• After a disappointing performance in the last few games, the coach decided that the star player would be benched for the upcoming match to evaluate their dedication and effort more closely. It's a tough decision, but sometimes a break can provide necessary insights into one's game strategy and performance improvements.
• During the high-pressure playoff game, the coach opted to bench one of the team’s key players, who had been struggling with injuries. This decision was made to protect the player's long-term health and allow a fully rested substitute to showcase skills that could make a decisive impact during this critical moment.
• In a corporate setting, an employee may be benched temporarily during a major project if their performance has not met standards. This time can be used for additional training or one-on-one coaching to ensure they can contribute effectively in future endeavors once they regain their footing.
• When the famous athlete was benched for a controversial statement made in a press conference, it highlighted the league's zero-tolerance policy for off-field behavior. This situation garnered significant media attention and sparked discussions about the balance between free speech and professional conduct.