Definitions

ball game

NOUN

how things stand

Synonyms

WEAK

big picture full particulars ins and outs lay of the land the score whole picture

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The removal of the flesh-and-blood element in something so human as a ball game will be pitched as a great stride forward, but it’s actually a major loss.

From Salon • Apr. 13, 2026

Selling homes is a whole different ball game, and you have to bring something to the table.”

From MarketWatch • Apr. 3, 2026

“Emotional. I’m spent emotionally. We got a ball game later tonight, which is crazy.”

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 28, 2025

Because I think if we fall short of that, that’s the end of the ball game.

From Slate • Oct. 15, 2025

Mr. Greene gave us a lot of homework over the weekend and Glen told him that he wouldn’t have a chance to get it done because of the ball game.

From "Slam!" by Walter Dean Myers