BALLPARK FIGURE Meaning and
Definition
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A "ballpark figure" is an idiomatic expression used to describe an approximate or rough estimate of a quantity or value. The term is derived from the sport of baseball, where a ballpark refers to the baseball field itself. In baseball, players and spectators often try to estimate the distance a home run ball will travel based on its trajectory and initial velocity. This estimation is typically not precise but rather a rough estimate, often referred to as a "ballpark figure."
In a broader sense, the phrase "ballpark figure" is used to describe a rough numerical approximation or an educated guess about a particular value. It suggests that the estimated value is within a reasonable range, but is not intended to be an exact or precise calculation. Rather than relying on accurate or meticulous calculations, a ballpark figure relies on general knowledge, intuition, and a rough projection of the relevant factors involved.
The expression is commonly used in various contexts, such as financial planning, budgeting, negotiations, and forecasting. For instance, when discussing project costs, a project manager might provide a ballpark figure to give stakeholders a sense of the potential expenses involved. Similarly, when negotiating a salary, an employer or employee might refer to a ballpark figure to establish a starting point for further discussions, knowing that the actual figure would be determined later based on specific factors.
Overall, a ballpark figure allows for a general understanding or estimation of a value without the need for precise calculations or exact measurements.
Common Misspellings for BALLPARK FIGURE
- vallpark figure
- nallpark figure
- hallpark figure
- gallpark figure
- bzllpark figure
- bsllpark figure
- bwllpark figure
- bqllpark figure
- baklpark figure
- baplpark figure
- baolpark figure
- balkpark figure
- balppark figure
- balopark figure
- balloark figure
- balllark figure
- ball-ark figure
- ball0ark figure
- ballpzrk figure
- ballpsrk figure
Etymology of BALLPARK FIGURE
The etymology of the phrase "ballpark figure" can be traced to baseball. The word "ballpark" refers to a baseball field or stadium, where the sport is played. The phrase "ballpark figure" originates from the practice in baseball of estimating the number of spectators in attendance at a game by making a rough calculation or guess. Similarly, when someone provides a "ballpark figure", it means they are giving an approximate or rough estimate rather than an exact number. Over time, the term has been adopted in a more general sense, outside of the context of baseball, to refer to any rough estimate.
Idioms with the word BALLPARK FIGURE
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a ballpark figure
The idiom "a ballpark figure" refers to an approximate or rough estimate of a number or amount, rather than an exact or precise figure. It implies that the given estimate is within a reasonable range or proximity of the actual value, much like the estimation of the number of spectators in a baseball stadium by visual observation rather than an accurate count.
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ballpark figure
A rough estimate or approximation of a number, usually used when discussing costs, prices, or quantities.
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