What does “Ball is in your court” mean?
"Ball is in your court" means that it's your turn to make a decision or take action.
What context can I use the in?
Example
I've given you all the information you need. Now the ball is in your court.
Example
I've done my part, now it's up to you. The ball is in your court.
Example
You've been given the opportunity to make a decision. The ball is in your court now
Is “Ball is in your court” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Ball is in your court” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Ball is in your court” effectively in context?
You can use "Ball is in your court" to indicate that it is someone's turn to make a decision or take action. It emphasizes that the responsibility now lies with them. For example, if you have provided all the necessary information for a project and it's now up to your colleague to make a decision, you might say, 'I've given you all the information you need. Now the "ball is in your court".'
- 1Work
After presenting the proposal, the ball is now in the client's court to decide whether to move forward.
- 2Relationships
He has expressed his feelings, and now the ball is in her court to respond.
- 3Negotiations
We have made our offer, and now the ball is in their court to accept or counter.
Similar phrases to “Ball is in your court”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Ball is in your court” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Ball is in your court" is derived from the game of tennis. In tennis, when the ball is hit to one player's side of the court, it is their responsibility to hit it back. The phrase has been used metaphorically to mean that it is someone's turn to take action or make a decision.
Is “Ball is in your court” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "Ball is in your court" is a commonly used idiom in everyday conversation. It is often used in professional settings, as well as in personal relationships, to indicate that someone has the responsibility to take action or make a decision.
What tone does “Ball is in your court” have?
"Ball is in your court" conveys a tone of passing responsibility or agency to someone else. It is often used in a neutral or slightly assertive manner to indicate that it is now their turn to act.
Can “Ball is in your court” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "Ball is in your court" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in various contexts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as meetings, negotiations, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'I've provided all the necessary information. Now the "ball is in your court".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'The "ball is in your court"!' to imply that it is now someone else's turn to take action.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- it's up to you
- the decision is yours
- the responsibility is on you
- it's your move
- you have the power
Antonyms
- it's my turn
- the ball is in my court
- i have the responsibility
- i will take action
