A ballpark figure
Meaning
An approximate number or estimate, rather than a precise one.
Origin
This distinctly American idiom emerges from the golden age of baseball in the early 20th century. When reporters covered a game, they would often have to estimate the crowd size or other statistics without exact counts. From the press box, they could only provide a "ballpark figure"—a rough, general estimate of the numbers within the vast expanse of the baseball stadium, or "ballpark." This practical need for quick, if imprecise, reporting eventually translated into a widespread metaphor for any approximate calculation.
Examples
- The CEO asked for a ballpark figure on the project's total cost before he approved further planning.
- Could you give me a ballpark figure for how many guests we should expect at the party?