phrase🎓 English idiom

the ball is in your court

it's your decision now

What it means

Used to say that it is now someone else's turn to make a decision or take action, and the responsibility has passed to them. It signals that you have done your part and are waiting on them.

Examples

  • I've made my offer, so now the ball is in your court.
  • We've explained the options; the ball is in your court now.
  • She apologised, and now the ball is in his court to respond.
  • The company sent the contract, so the ball is in our court.

Where it comes from

A metaphor from tennis (and similar court games), where it is your turn to play once the ball lands on your side. It became common in the 20th century.

Related idioms

#on the fence#up in the air#cross that bridge when you come to it#play it by ear

🎓 Think you know your idioms?

Take the English Idioms Test — 20 terms, instant result, no signup.

Take the test

Built by the team behind Deep In.