# the ball is in someone's court

idiom · CEFR B1

Source: https://englishreference.com/idiom/the-ball-is-in-someones-court
Updated: 2026-08-10

## Meaning

It is someone's turn to do something; often making a decision.

## Examples

- I sent the offer, so now the ball is in your court.
- We have finished our part of the project, so the ball is in their court to review the final report.
- Having presented a comprehensive proposal to the board of directors, the manager sat back, knowing the ball was now in their court to approve the funding.

## Origin

From tennis and other court games: once the ball is on your side, it is your turn to act; figurative use from the mid-20th century. (disputed)

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.