Unforced error
An error made while under no pressure from the opponent e.g. mishitting a ball.
Take back
The preparation of the stroke prior to the forward swing.
Big point
A crucial point deciding which player wins a set or an important game. For example, when the scores are level and the server is 30-40 down.
Anticipation
The ability to predict where the opponent is going to play the ball.
Groundstroke
A forehand or backhand stroke played after the ball has bounced.
Chop
A backspin, defensive shot used to return fast services. Occasionally also used for drop shots.
Hard court
A tennis court whose surface is made out of asphalt, concrete or a similar material.
Defensive player
A type of player who generally stays at the baseline and tries to keep the ball in play without taking risks. Players like this leave the attacking to their opponents, winning most of their points from opponent errors.
Motor Learning
Movement training, drills to improve response time, and patterns of play.
Service
The stroke used at the start of each point.
Grass court
Grass courts are becoming less and less common because of the time and money needed to maintain them. They are dependent on good drainage. Fast-playing surface.
Net or Let
The call from the net-cord judge when a serve touches the top of the net.
Return
Primarily the stroke that returns the service but can be used to describe any shot during a rally.