The ball is in your/somebody’s court

usgb
idiom

It is your turn to take action or responsibility in a situation.

I've done all I can to fix this issue, now the ball is in your court.
Visual representation of "the ball is in your/somebody’s court" - It is your turn to take action or responsibility in a situation.

Often appears as...

  • play the ball in their court
  • throw the ball in their court

Usage tips

Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1
Visual representation of "the ball is in your/somebody’s court"
LampPro Tip 1/3

Tennis Origin

Imagine a tennis match where you wait for the other player to hit the ball back.

Illustration for Tennis Origin
I've sent the job application; the ball is in their court now.
LampPro Tip 2/3

Decision Time

Use it when someone needs to make a decision or take a step after you’ve done your part.

Illustration for Decision Time
You've heard my side of the argument; the ball is in your court.
LampPro Tip 3/3

Shared Responsibility

It highlights that now it's the other person’s turn to share the responsibility.

Illustration for Shared Responsibility
I've planned our last three dates, the ball is in your court this time.
Visual representation of the word "The ball is in your/somebody’s court"

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