Are you finished making your point in an argument? You could tell the other person that the 'ball's in your court' to ask them for their response. This post unpacks the meaning and origin of this expression.
Meaning
The expression 'the ball's in your court' means the initiative action now lies with another party after you complete your side of the project, task, or conversation. It states that the action initiative now lies with another party, and you're waiting for their reply.
The phrase can refer to legal proceedings, everyday conversations, arguments, actions, and tasks. When you say 'the balls in your court,' you're telling the other person that it's their turn to make a move. The phrase can have a lighthearted or serious tone. It depends on the context of the situation and the attitudes of the parties involved in the task or conversation.
Example Usage
"So, I estimate we could grow company profits by at least 5% this year alone by implementing this system. It's up to you to decide if you want to go with it. The ball's in your court."
"Well, what now? The ball's in your court. You can either go along with it or suggest something new. What are you going to do?"
"Look, I got us here, now, the ball's in your court. Tell us where to go next. It's up to you to make the decision, and we're waiting on your reply."
"Well. It looks like the ball's in your court now. We've done everything we can to bring it this far, and it's up to you to bring it down the home straight."
"I've told you what we're prepared to offer you for the property. The ball's in your court now. Either accept the offer or move on to someone else."
"We've given you the opportunity. Now the ball's in your court. Let's see if you can handle the pressure and deliver the expected results."
"The ball's in your court. We've done our end of the deal, and now it's up to you to close it."
"We're done on our side. Now the ball's in your court. Let us know when you have everything ready to go, and we'll pick up with the next stage."
Origin
The expression 'ball's in your court' originates from tennis. Players hit the ball from one side of the court to their opponents, in the ho[e they miss or make a mistake and hit the ball out of bounds or into the net.
Language experts are unsure of the first use of the idiom in its figurative sense. However, some suggest it comes from the 1960s and television's popularization of the sport. No evidence indicates if the phrase emerged in America or the UK first.
Phrases Similar to Balls in Your Court
- Over to you.
- You’re next.
Phrases Opposite to Balls in Your Court
- It’s my turn.
What is the Correct Saying?
- The ball’s in your court.
Ways People May Say Balls in Your Court Incorrectly
The phrase has nothing to do with ball sports or playing games. It's a way of forcing someone into taking action. The 'ball's in your court' does not refer to a magistrates court or any legal activity. However, a lawyer could use it in the courtroom when asking the witness to answer a question.
Acceptable Ways to Phrase Balls in Your Court
You can use the phrase 'balls in your court' to let the other person know they must make the next move or decision. The expression suits social and professional use. For instance, if you present a new initiative to your boss, you could close with the benefits and say 'the balls in your court' to initiate the management's decision.
You could use it with friends after making a statement, requiring them to reply with a decision or argument to what you previously said. The phrase suits text-based communications and verbal exchanges.