IN BALLPARK Meaning and
Definition
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"In ballpark" is an idiom that refers to being approximately correct or within an acceptable range or estimate. The term originates from the game of baseball, where a "ballpark" is the field used to play the game. When a player hits a ball into the field, it is considered within the ballpark, even if it does not land exactly in a designated area like the stands or the playing field.
In a figurative sense, "in ballpark" denotes being sufficiently close to the target or goal. It suggests that a value or estimation falls within an expected or reasonable range, even if it is not entirely precise or exact. When used in conversations or scenarios where numerical or measurable quantities are discussed, "in ballpark" implies that the given value is approximately right or close enough for practical purposes. It conveys a sense of acceptability and adequacy, acknowledging that the exact figure may not be known, but that the estimation is considered accurate enough to proceed with further analysis, decision-making, or discussion.
For example, during a financial meeting, if the estimated cost of a project is said to be "in ballpark," it indicates that the projected cost falls within an acceptable range and can be used for budgeting purposes. Similarly, if someone asks for a rough estimate of time required to complete a task, a response of "around two weeks, give or take a few days" could be considered "in ballpark," as it provides a close approximation within an acceptable margin of error.
Common Misspellings for IN BALLPARK
- inball park
- in bal park
- in ballpark
- in ball park
- inballpark
- un ballpark
- jn ballpark
- kn ballpark
- on ballpark
- 9n ballpark
- 8n ballpark
- ib ballpark
- im ballpark
- ij ballpark
- ih ballpark
- in vallpark
- in nallpark
- in hallpark
- in gallpark
- in bzllpark
Etymology of IN BALLPARK
The phrase "in ballpark" is derived from the sport of baseball. It originated in early 20th century America and has been adopted into everyday language to convey the idea of being in the right range, close to an expected value or within an acceptable limit.
In baseball, a ballpark refers to the stadium or field where the game is played. The term "in ballpark" emerged as a way of describing a ball that was hit within the bounds of the field, meaning it was still in play. This concept of being within the designated playing area was later extended to figuratively represent being within an acceptable or expected range.
Over time, this baseball-inspired expression has been used more broadly to describe any situation where something falls within a reasonable range or is roughly on target. Thus, "in ballpark" has come to signify being close enough, in the right vicinity, or in the correct ballpark of what is desired or expected.
