550 : English Masterclass | 30 English Idioms You Must Know
Dec 3, 2023
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Learn 30 English idioms that every English learner must know, including 'off the mark', 'bend over backward', and 'bite off more than you can chew'. Explore the importance of staying focused and using idioms to improve English fluency. Delve into idioms like 'to come to a head', 'turn a deaf ear', 'turn the clock back', 'twist someone's arm', and 'wear several hats'.
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Quick takeaways
Knowing English idioms helps improve fluency and confidence in speaking English.
Cutting corners can lead to lower quality products by taking shortcuts.
Getting down to business means focusing on the main task without wasting time on distractions.
Hitting the ground running means starting a new project or job with enthusiasm and efficiency.
Learning the ropes involves acquiring the necessary skills and understanding the details of a job or task.
Deep dives
1. Ballpark figure
A ballpark figure refers to an approximate or rough estimate. It is an estimate or rough approximation about a certain amount or value. For example, when discussing a project budget, one might say, 'Let's estimate a ballpark figure of about $1 million.' This means that the actual budget can vary, but the estimate is around that amount.
2. Cut corners
To cut corners means to do something in a cheaper or quicker way, often sacrificing quality. It refers to finding shortcuts or taking easier or less expensive routes to accomplish something. For instance, a company might decide to cut corners in the production process in order to meet a tight deadline, but this can result in lower quality products.
3. Get down to business
To get down to business means to start focusing on the main topic or task at hand without wasting time. It implies a sense of urgency to begin working on the important aspects and to avoid unnecessary distractions or small talk. For example, in a meeting, someone might say, 'Let's get down to business and discuss the details of the project.'
4. Hit the ground running
To hit the ground running means to start a new project or job energetically and without any delays. It implies immediately starting the task or project with enthusiasm and efficiency. For instance, a new employee might hit the ground running by quickly adapting to the work environment and taking on their responsibilities.
5. Learn the ropes
To learn the ropes means to become familiar with the details and practical knowledge of a job or task. It suggests acquiring the necessary skills and understanding the processes or procedures involved. For example, a new hire may need some time to learn the ropes of a company's internal procedures.
6. Call the shots
To call the shots means to be in a position of control or to have the authority to make decisions. It implies being the one in charge and having the final say in important matters. For instance, a CEO is the one who calls the shots in a company, making key decisions and establishing the direction.
7. Cut to the chase
To cut to the chase means to get to the main point or important part without wasting time on irrelevant details or small talk. It implies being direct and straightforward in communication. For example, during a conversation, someone might say, 'Let's cut to the chase and discuss the key issues.'
8. Think outside the box
To think outside the box means to think creatively, unconventionally, or beyond traditional boundaries. It involves considering innovative or unconventional ideas or approaches. For example, when brainstorming solutions, it is important to think outside the box and come up with fresh and unique ideas.
9. Keep someone in the loop
To keep someone in the loop means to inform or include someone in the communication or decision-making process. It involves keeping someone updated and involved in important matters. For instance, a team leader should keep everyone in the loop regarding important decisions and updates.
10. Stay on top of something
To stay on top of something means to stay informed and in control of a situation or task. It implies actively monitoring and managing the progress and details to ensure everything is on track. For example, a project manager needs to stay on top of the project's progress and deadlines to ensure its successful completion.
In today’s episode, you will learn 30 English Idioms that every English learner must know. After this lesson, you will have more confidence in your ability to speak English fluently.
