← Back to collection
Region: General | Usage example: I've sent my proposal; now the ball is in your court.

The ball is in your court

Meaning

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Usage

Often used during negotiations or collaborative projects to signal that the next move belongs to another party.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Derived from sports like tennis, referencing whose turn it is to serve or return the ball.

Entered conversational English in the early 20th century as tennis became a popular metaphor for responsibility.

Related Idioms

Ball in your court

Now it is your turn to act.

Put your money where your mouth is

Support words with action or investment.

Keep your eye on the ball

Stay focused on the goal.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.

Barking up the wrong tree

Accusing or pursuing the wrong person/idea; making a false assumption.