What does “In the ballpark” mean?
"In the ballpark" means that something is approximately or roughly within a certain range or estimate.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The estimate for the project is in the ballpark of $100,000.
Example
I think the temperature outside is in the ballpark of 80 degrees.
Example
The number of attendees at the event was in the ballpark of 500 people
Is “In the ballpark” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“In the ballpark” 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 “In the ballpark” effectively in context?
You can use "In the ballpark" to indicate that something is approximately or roughly within a certain range or amount. It is often used when giving estimates or making educated guesses. For example, if someone asks you about the cost of a project, you might say, 'The estimate is "in the ballpark" of $100,000.' This implies that the actual cost may vary slightly, but it is close to that amount.
- 1Estimation
The estimate for the project is in the ballpark of $100,000.
- 2Temperature
I think the temperature outside is in the ballpark of 80 degrees.
- 3Attendance
The number of attendees at the event was in the ballpark of 500 people.
Similar phrases to “In the ballpark”:
Around/about
Approximately or roughly
Example
The cost is around $50.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “In the ballpark” come from?
The origin of the phrase "In the ballpark" is unknown.
Is “In the ballpark” common in everyday conversation?
"In the ballpark" is a common expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to give rough estimates or to indicate that something is approximately within a certain range.
What tone does “In the ballpark” have?
"In the ballpark" conveys a neutral tone. It is a practical and informal way to express an approximate value or range without being too specific.
Can “In the ballpark” be used in informal and formal settings?
"In the ballpark" is a relatively informal expression. It is commonly used in casual conversations, but it can also be used in more formal settings depending on the context.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
"In the ballpark" is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The price is "in the ballpark" of $50.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'It's "in the ballpark"' to imply that something is roughly within a certain range.
