the ball is in your court
the ball is in (one's) court
One has the responsibility for further action, especially after someone else previously held responsibility. The phrase originated in tennis. Well, they invited you, so the ball is in your court now. Do you want to go out with them or not?
See also: ball, court
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
the ball is in your court
COMMON If the ball is in your court, it is your responsibility to decide what to do next in a particular situation. We've made him an offer but now he has to decide whether to accept: the ball is in his court. Note: This expression refers to the game of tennis.
See also: ball, court
Collins COBUILD Idioms Dictionary, 3rd ed.
the ball is in your/somebody’s ˈcourt
it is somebody’s turn to speak, act, etc. next: I’ve given them a list of the changes that I think are necessary, so the ball’s in their court now.See also: ball, court
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
- ball's in your court, the
- the ball is in (one's) court
- the ball is in court
- the ball is in someone’s court
- the ball is in someone's court
- the ball is in your/somebody's court
- take charge
- deep water
- at (one's) own peril
- at your peril