# ballpark

/ˈbɔɫˌpɑɹk/ (US) · /bˈɔːlpɑːk/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ballpark
Updated: 2026-05-06

## Definition

a range or area that is close to the right amount or number. You use it when you are guessing but want to be nearly correct.

For teachers: an approximate range or area of precision, especially regarding numerical estimates. Often used in business contexts to indicate a figure is a reasonable guess.

## Examples

- Give me a ballpark figure for the repairs.
- We don't need the exact budget today, but we need to be in the right ballpark before the meeting.
- While the final costs will depend on the specific materials chosen, the initial quote provides a ballpark that allows the committee to decide if the project is feasible.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the idiomatic phrases 'in the ballpark' or 'ballpark figure'.

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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.