split
split
/splɪt/
A pin configuration left after the first throw of a frame where the headpin is down and the remaining pins are separated by a wide gap.
A split is notoriously difficult to convert into a spare because the ball must slide or deflect one pin into the other across a wide empty space.
The story behind the word. The word 'split' entered English from Middle Dutch maritime trade terms referring to wood cleaving or ships breaking apart. In bowling, it perfectly describes the physical division of the remaining pins, which are severed from their neighbors with no easy path between them.
Word relationships
- divided pins: 'Divided pins' is a descriptive phrase, while 'split' is the official technical term.
Commonly confused with
- spare: A split is a difficult pin setup, while a spare is the successful clearance of any remaining pins.
Word family
- splits (noun): plural form of split
- splitting (verb): dividing
Collocations
- 7-10 split
- baby split
- convert a split
- leave a split
Idioms & expressions
- split the difference
- split hairs
Example sentences
- "He groaned as his ball hit too high on the headpin, leaving the dreaded 7-10 split." A frustrating moment in a match
Memory hook
The remaining pins are 'split' far apart, making them hard to hit. Divided and conquered?
When not to use
Do not use 'split' if the headpin (the 1-pin) is still standing; by definition, a split requires the headpin to be knocked down.
Fun facts
- The 7-10 split is so difficult to convert that even professional bowlers only succeed in clearing it about 0.7% of the time.
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