Hit a home run
/hɪt ə ˈhəʊm rʌn/informalUS
What does “Hit a home run” mean?
Hit a home run means to achieve a great success
A birthday present that someone absolutely loves can be a home run. The praise need not concern work or sport.
It usually judges a result that has happened. Calling something “a slam dunk” can instead predict that it will be easy to achieve.
When do people say it?
A cheerful way to praise a successful result, especially in American English. Use “with” to name the successful idea, choice or performance.
“You hit a home run with that birthday present for Dad.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in US.
Where does it come from?
In baseball, a home run lets the batter circle the bases and score. The everyday expression turns that sporting achievement into a major success.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Hit a home run” in other languages?
Related idioms
- Knock it out of the park, To do something exceptionally well
- A slam dunk, something expected to succeed easily
Last updated 2026-11-04