The Ball is in Your Court — Meaning, Usage & Examples

What it means...

When the ball is in your court, someone else has done what they can and is now waiting for you to respond.

It’s often used after making an offer, sending information, or responding to a situation — the other person must now decide what to do next.

Use it when…

When you’ve made your move and it’s someone else’s turn to respond.
When you’ve done your part and the next step is theirs.
When you want to signal it’s someone else’s turn to decide.

Don’t confuse with...

"Pass the Buck"

—

Avoid responsibility by shifting it to someone else

"Step Up to the Plate"

—

Volunteer to take action when a situation demands it

"The Ball is in Your Court"

—

It’s your turn to respond or make the next move

Where you’ll hear it

You’ll hear the "The Ball is in Your Court" idiom in real life — at work, in relationships, or in the media.

Work & Business

Sales / Negotiation

After submitting the revised proposal, the sales rep told her team the ball was in their court.

Relationships & Social Life

Romantic Partners

She’d already apologized twice — the ball was in his court to decide if he wanted to make up.

Media & Everyday Life

News

Commentators noted that after the government’s counter-offer, the ball was now in the union’s court.

‹›

Use it like this

Here’s how to use "The Ball is in Your Court" idiom naturally in real conversations, with real examples.

Work & Business

Negotiation

You

We’ve sent over the final terms. The ball is in their court now.

Colleague

Good. Let’s give them a few days before we follow up.

Relationships

Resolving Issues

Friend

Should I text him again?

You

You’ve already reached out twice. The ball is in his court — let him come to you.

Everyday Conversations

Describing Events

You

I sent my application in yesterday. Now the ball is in their court.

Friend

That’s exciting — fingers crossed for you!

‹›

Last updated:

April 20, 2026

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