Ringer

A 'ringer' is someone secretly substituted for another in a competition, often to give an unfair advantage. This person is typically a skilled athlete or performer whose abilities greatly exceed those of the expected competitors. The term implies deception and a breach of fair play. Beyond sports, 'ringer' can also refer to a person who performs a task exceptionally well, surpassing the expected standards. It carries a connotation of outstanding talent or skill, though context dictates whether this is achieved fairly.

Ringer meaning with examples

• The opposing team was accused of using a ringer in the basketball tournament. Their new player, with a college-level skill set, dominated the game, raising suspicions about his eligibility and leading to a heated debate about fairness. The coach vehemently denied any wrongdoing, claiming the player was new to the area and registered within the rules.
• The talent show judges were suspicious when a virtually unknown singer delivered a performance that was clearly professional, immediately suspecting that they had brought a ringer on stage to win.
• My friend is such a ringer when it comes to trivia. He knows the answers to almost every question we ask. He should try out for the quiz team, the way he recalls obscure information is unbelievable.
• The company hired a consultant, a ringer in business strategy, to streamline operations. The consultant's expert advice and implementation of new systems greatly improved the company's productivity and profit margins, boosting the stock price.
• Despite the tournament's ban on professional players, accusations surfaced that one participant, a ringer from a more competitive league, had registered under a false name, triggering an investigation and potential disqualification. Many viewed his presence as a severe violation.