What does 'the ball is in your court' mean?

What it means: It's your turn to take action or make a decision. The responsibility has shifted to you - the other person has done what they can, and now they're waiting on you.

Where it comes from: Tennis. When the ball is in your court, you're the one who needs to hit it. The game can't continue until you act.

• "I've sent the proposal - the ball is in their court now."
• "I've told her how I feel. The ball is in her court."
• "I can't do more - the ball is in your court."

What it implies: The person saying it has done their part. They're signalling that they're waiting for you to respond, decide, or act. It can be neutral (just stating a fact) or slightly impatient (implying you should act).

• "It's up to you now" - plain, direct
• "Your move" - casual, game-like
• "We're waiting on your decision" - professional
• "The next step is yours" - clear and neutral

Register: Casual to professional. Works in everyday conversation and business settings.

Tags: idiom, decisions, responsibility, tennis, workplace, everyday English