The idiom "ballpark figure" means an approximate or rough estimate of a number, quantity, or cost. It is often used when someone is not sure about the exact amount but wants to give an idea of the range.
For example, if someone asks you how much a new car costs, and you are not sure of the exact price, you can give them a ballpark figure by saying something like, "Well, a new car can cost anywhere from $20,000 to $50,000, depending on the make and model."
Similarly, if someone asks you how many people attended a concert, and you don't have the exact number, you can give them a ballpark figure by saying something like, "I would say around 10,000 people were there."
In summary, "ballpark figure" is used to give an approximate or rough estimate of a number, quantity, or cost when the exact amount is not known.
• Can you give me a ballpark figure of how long it will take to finish this project?
• The expert gave a presentation with a detailed breakdown of expenses, but first provided a ballpark figure for the total cost.
• The company's profits are expected to increase by a ballpark figure of 20% this quarter.
• The politician was criticized for making promises without providing a clear, detailed plan, and only offering a vague ballpark figure for funding.
• I don't know the exact price, but a ballpark figure for a movie ticket is around $10.
• The seller gave us a ballpark figure for the cost of repairing the roof, but we need to get a more accurate estimate.