idioms using “ball”

Ball is in their court

They must make the next move

“Morinaga-san already sent the proposal to the customer. Now the ball is in their court.”Note: Also commonly used: the ball is in our court (we must make the next move)

Have a crystal ball

A magical ball in which the future is shown

“If only we had a crystal ball, we wouldn’t need to worry so much about the outcome of the negotiations.”

Drop the ball

To make a major mistake, or to fail to follow through on something

“We didn’t get the new client because Nishida-san dropped the ball; he completely missed the deadline.”

Have a ball

Have a great time

“We had a ball at the company barbecue and softball tournament.”

On the ball

Sharp, prepared

“Most of the team had jet lag; only Nishi-san was on the ball so she made the presentation.”