ballpark figure

Idioms  

1. An acceptable, roughly accurate approximation, as in I know you can't tell me the exact cost; just give me a ballpark figure. This term alludes to a baseball field, which is always an enclosed space. The expression is basically an extension of the somewhat earlier in the ballpark, meaning within a reasonable range, and out of the ballpark, beyond a reasonable range. [Slang; late 1960s]

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Example Sentences

The figures are based on a number of assumptions—including Zaslav having departed this month, which he hasn’t—making it a ballpark figure that is likely to change before the deal closes, the company noted in its securities filings.

From The Wall Street Journal

More than 100 people have died across the mountains this season so far, according to the European Avalanche Warning Services – a ballpark figure not seen for eight years.

From BBC

When we asked Yatai how much money they made they would not tell us – not even a ballpark figure.

From BBC

Asked how much money he’s raised, Foster intimated that a ballpark figure would become evident as players started to trickle in through the transfer portal.

From Los Angeles Times

An accountant exasperatingly asks for a ballpark figure, and Escola’s Bernadette, wiggling like a charmed snake with their hands on their hips, asks, “Is this a ballpark figure?”

From New York Times