20
Idioms about work and decisions
Idioms are easier to remember when you learn them together with others from the same situation. Here are the 20 idioms on this topic in the English Idioms app, each with its meaning and an example sentence. Choose one to see it in more detail.
- Hit the nail on the headDescribe or identify something exactly right.“Your explanation hit the nail on the head.”
- On the same pageAgree or share the same understanding.“Let's make sure we're on the same page before we begin.”
- Burn the midnight oilWork or study late into the night.“We burned the midnight oil to finish the report.”
- Call it a dayStop working for now.“We finished the main tasks and decided to call it a day.”
- Get the ball rollingStart an activity or process.“Maya got the ball rolling with a quick introduction.”
- Go the extra mileMake more effort than expected.“Our guide went the extra mile to help us.”
- Back to square oneReturn to the beginning after a failed attempt.“The failed test sent us back to square one.”
- Learn the ropesLearn how a job or activity works.“It took me a week to learn the ropes at my new job.”
- Think outside the boxThink in a new or creative way.“We need to think outside the box to solve this problem.”
- Cut cornersSave time or money by doing something poorly.“The builder cut corners and the roof started leaking.”
- On the fenceUndecided between two choices or opinions.“I'm still on the fence about accepting the offer.”
- By the bookExactly according to the rules or instructions.“The inspector did everything by the book.”
- Have a lot on your plateHave many tasks or responsibilities to deal with.“With exams and a new job, you have a lot on your plate.”
- The ball is in your courtIt is your turn to decide or take the next step.“I have sent you the offer; the ball is in your court.”
- Get the hang ofLearn how to do or use something through practice.“It took a few tries to get the hang of the new camera.”
- Miss the boatLose an opportunity by acting too late.“Apply today or you may miss the boat.”
- On the right trackUse an approach that is leading towards a good result.“Your answers are improving, so you're on the right track.”
- A long shotAn attempt that has only a small chance of succeeding.“Getting a refund without a receipt is a long shot, but I'll ask.”
- Keep an open mindStay willing to consider other ideas before judging.“I'll keep an open mind until I've heard both proposals.”
- Bite off more than you can chewAccept more work or responsibility than you can manage.“If I agree to run three projects alone, I'll bite off more than I can chew.”