“Catchphrase” is a popular guessing game team activity used in various settings, from casual social gatherings to structured team-building events in the workplace.
The guessing game for workshops principle is based on communication and quick thinking, making it an excellent tool for fostering teamwork and productive meetings, enhancing communication skills, and promoting a fun, collaborative environment.
Definition of “Catchphrase” Team Activity
“Catchphrase” is a word-guessing game where players describe a word or phrase without using the word itself or any part of it.
The aim is to get your team to guess the word or phrase correctly within a given time limit.
The game continues fast-paced, passing from team to team until the timer runs out.
Why “Catchphrase” Matters in the Workplace
In the workplace, “Catchphrase” is more than just a game.
It is a tool that encourages employees to communicate effectively under pressure, think quickly, and work together to achieve a common goal. It can help break down barriers, foster camaraderie, and promote a positive, collaborative culture.
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What is the “Catchphrase” Game?
“Catchphrase” is a team-based game that requires a minimum of four players, ideally an even number, as players are divided into two teams.
The game involves guessing words or phrases based on the descriptions given by a teammate.
The team that guesses the most words or phrases correctly within the time limit wins the game.
Who is it Best For?
“Catchphrase” is best for groups who want to improve their communication skills, think on their feet, and foster teamwork. It is suitable for all ages and can be played in various settings, including the workplace, schools, and social events.
What You Need
All you need to play “Catchphrase” is a set of catchphrase cards or a catchphrase game unit. If these are not available, you can create your own list of words or phrases.
How to Play “Catchphrase”
The game begins by dividing the group into two teams.
One player from the first team starts by drawing a card or pressing the button on the game unit to reveal a word or phrase.
The player must then describe the word or phrase to their team without using the word itself or any part of it.
Once the team guesses correctly, the game unit or deck of cards is passed to a player from the other team, and the process repeats.
The game continues until the timer runs out.
The team not holding the game unit or deck of cards when the timer ends scores a point.
The game continues for a predetermined number of rounds, and the team with the most points wins.
Eight Rules of “Catchphrase”
- No Gestures Allowed: Players are not allowed to use any form of gestures or sign language to describe the word or phrase.
- No Rhyming Clues: Players cannot give clues that rhyme with the word or phrase.
- No Spelling Out: Players are not allowed to spell out the word or phrase.
- No “Sounds Like” Clues: Players cannot give clues that suggest the word or phrase sounds like another word.
- No Part of the Word: Players cannot use any part of the word or phrase in their description.
- Passing is Allowed: If a player finds a word or phrase too difficult, they can pass, but this will cost their team a point.
- Keep the Game Moving: The game unit or deck of cards should be passed immediately after a correct guess.
- No Repeating Clues: Once a clue has been given for a word or phrase, it cannot be used again in the same game.
Tips on How to Play “Catchphrase”
To excel in “Catchphrase,” players should focus on giving clear, concise clues. It’s important to think quickly and communicate effectively. We hear this from customers that regularly use of our training course materials.
For example, if the phrase is “Burning the midnight oil,” a player might say, “An idiom for working late into the night.”
Five Variations of “Catchphrase”
- Themed Catchphrase: All the words or phrases relate to a specific theme, such as movies, sports, or the workplace.
- Charades Catchphrase: Players can use gestures or act out the word or phrase.
- One-word Catchphrase: Players can only use one word to describe the word or phrase.
- Silent Catchphrase: Players write down their clues instead of saying them out loud.
- Reverse Catchphrase: The team guesses the word or phrase, and the player giving the clues confirms if it’s correct or not.
Where to begin: Virtual escape rooms and the what does it mean to me icebreaker.
Conclusion
“Catchphrase” is a versatile, engaging team activity that promotes effective communication, quick thinking, and teamwork.
Whether it’s played in a casual setting or a structured workplace environment, “Catchphrase” offers a fun, competitive way to enhance these essential skills.
With its various game variations, “Catchphrase” remains a fresh and exciting activity for all.
With 30+ years of experience, Catherine Fitzgerald, B.A., M.A., PGDip, founded Oak Innovation in 1995. Catherine received her Bachelor’s degree and Master’s from University College Cork. She holds qualifications in Professional Development And Training from University College Galway. She is completing a second Master’s from University College Cork. Since 1995, clients include Apple, Time Warner, and Harvard University.
