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the ball is in one's court
01
used to tell someone that it depends on them to make a certain decision or to take a specified action
Idiom
InformalWhat is the origin of the idiom "the ball is in one's court" and when to use it?
The idiom "the ball is in one's court" has its origin in the world of sports, particularly in games like tennis and racquet sports. In these games, players take turns hitting a ball back and forth over a net. When the ball is in one player's court, it means it is their turn to make a move or take action. Figuratively, this expression is used to convey that someone is responsible for making a decision or taking action in a particular situation, and it implies that it is now their turn to respond or make their move.
Examples
I've done everything I can to resolve the issue with the client, and now the ball is in their court to decide whether they want to proceed with the project.
After the job interview, the company is waiting for the candidate's response, and the ball is in their court to accept or decline the offer.
