Buzz
Additionally, discover the origins of this commonly used idiom.
You’ve probably heard the phrase 'Let’s touch base soon' whether you’re at work or hanging out with friends. 'Touch base' is an idiomatic expression meaning to briefly contact or check in with someone. While it’s frequently used in professional environments, it also appears in conversations with family and friends. Keep reading to understand when to use 'touch base,' how to respond to it, and its history!
What Does It Mean to Touch Base with Someone?
'Touch base' is an expression that implies briefly getting in touch with someone, typically for a quick update or to track progress. Most commonly heard in workplace settings, it signifies a desire to meet with colleagues for a short check-in. The phrase is believed to have originated in baseball.
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The Definition of 'Touch Base'
'Touch base' means to briefly contact or connect with someone. This idiom refers to reaching out for a quick conversation, often to check in or get an update on something. For example, you might say you want to touch base with someone to ask how they're doing, check on a specific topic, or provide them with an update.
- “Let’s touch base this afternoon. I want to hear how the project launch went.”
- “I just wanted to touch base with you and let you know that I’m back home. The trip was great!”
- Note: The verb 'touch' in 'touch base' allows for conjugation. You can use it in past, present, or future tense, like 'I’m touching base' or 'I touched base.'
When Should You Use 'Touch Base'?
'Touch base' is primarily used in business settings. In professional environments, 'touch base' usually refers to a short, informal meeting. It’s commonly used with colleagues, managers, or anyone you’re working with.
- In business, a 'touch base' meeting is typically brief and casual. If your boss asks you to attend one, they likely want a quick check-in to see how you're progressing and if you have any updates on your tasks.
'Touch base' can also be used casually with friends and family. Although it’s most frequently used in work contexts, it’s perfectly fine to use this phrase with loved ones or acquaintances. In these cases, it simply means you want to catch up or ask them about something quickly.
How to Use the Phrase 'Touch Base'
Ask your colleagues or supervisor if they’re available for a brief meeting. If you need to provide a quick update to your team or ask your boss a question, let them know you want to touch base. You can ask when they are free to meet, whether in person or via email.
- “Hey, Tanner! Could we touch base about the new software update? Are you free today at 3?”
- “Hi, Melody! Can we touch base tomorrow morning about the spreadsheet you sent me? I’m a bit confused about some of the formulas.”
Let your friends or family know you want to catch up or have a quick chat. If you want to share some gossip with a friend or check on how your sibling is doing, tell them you’d like to touch base. It makes it clear that you’re interested in a short conversation.
- “We need to touch base about Hilary’s party! I heard some juicy gossip that you need to hear too!”
- “It’s been ages since we last talked! Let’s touch base soon and catch up!”
How to Reply to 'Touch Base'
Agree on a time to meet with your colleague or manager. When someone, like your boss or coworker, asks if you’re available to touch base, simply confirm a time that works for you. If you’re unsure about the purpose of the meeting, it’s helpful to ask for more details so you can be prepared.
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Them: “Are you available tomorrow to touch base? I’d love to hear how you’re adjusting to your new role.”
You: “Yes, tomorrow afternoon works perfectly. Does 1 PM suit you?”
Reply that you're excited to catch up with your friend or family member. If someone close to you says they want to touch base soon, express your eagerness to talk with them. If you're busy, let them know when you'll be available to chat.
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Them: “I want to hear all about your new place! Let’s touch base in the next few days.”
You: “That sounds great! Feel free to call me anytime. I can’t wait to catch up!”
The History of the Phrase 'Touch Base'
The expression 'touch base' most likely comes from baseball. In the game, a player must touch each of the three bases before returning to home plate to score a run. The phrase may have been inspired by this concept of 'home base,' or the central point where someone begins or returns to. Over time, 'touch base' evolved to refer to making a connection or meeting up with someone.
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The word 'base' remains singular in the expression 'touch base.' Therefore, saying 'Let’s touch bases tomorrow' is grammatically incorrect.
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'Touch basis' is a common misspelling of 'touch base,' and it's also considered incorrect.
