General
audible
What does audible mean?
A change of play called aloud by the quarterback at the line of scrimmage, overriding the play chosen in the huddle.
"He read the blitz and called an audible to a quick slant."
Origin
American football, from 'audible' meaning able to be heard, since the QB shouts the new call.
Frequently asked questions
What does calling an audible mean?
It means the quarterback changes the play at the line of scrimmage, shouting a new call to override the one chosen in the huddle.
Why do quarterbacks call audibles?
They audible when they read something in the defense, like a blitz or coverage, that makes the original play a bad choice.
Is 'call an audible' used outside football?
Yes. It's common in everyday speech to mean changing your plan at the last second when the situation calls for it.
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