Ballpark Figure – Meaning and Examples
Have you ever been asked how much something costs, how long a project will take, or how many people might attend an event—but you don’t have the exact answer yet? In English, you can give a ballpark figure! This helpful idiom means a rough estimate or approximate number, not an exact one.
What Does “Ballpark Figure” Mean?
“Ballpark figure” means an approximate number or estimate that’s close enough to be useful, even if it’s not precise. Think of it like standing in a baseball “ballpark”—you don’t need to be on the exact base; being somewhere in the field is good enough for now. The phrase isn’t about sports; it’s a practical way to say, “This is my best guess for now.”
When to Use It
Use this phrase in casual or professional conversations when you need to give a quick estimate—like during budget talks, planning meetings, or casual chats about time, cost, or quantity. It’s common in business, event planning, home repairs, or even travel. This idiom is informal but widely accepted in everyday and workplace English.
Example Sentences
- I don’t know the exact cost, but a ballpark figure is around $1,500.
- Can you give me a ballpark figure for how long the website update will take?
- We’re expecting a ballpark figure of 200 guests at the wedding.
- “How much for a new laptop?” “Ballpark figure? $800 to $1,200.”
Mini Dialogue
Alex: “Do we have enough budget for the marketing campaign?”
Jamie: “I’d say a ballpark figure is $5,000—but I’ll get exact quotes by Friday.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Don’t use “ballpark figure” when you’re giving a final, exact number. It only applies when you’re clearly offering an estimate—not a confirmed amount.
❌ Don’t say: “The invoice is $1,247. That’s my ballpark figure.” (That’s exact!)
✅ Do say: “My ballpark figure is $1,200, but the final cost may vary.”
Practice Tip
Next time someone asks for a number you’re unsure of, try saying: “I can give you a ballpark figure.” It’s a natural, honest way to set expectations in English.
Final Note
Now you can use “ballpark figure” to share estimates with confidence! It’s a smart, everyday phrase that keeps conversations moving without needing perfect precision. Keep using it—and remember, sometimes a good guess is all you need to get started.