When we talk or write, especially at work, sometimes we use special phrases called “idioms.” Idioms are like secret codes or puzzles that don’t mean what the words actually say but have a hidden meaning that lots of people understand. It’s fun to use them, and they can make what you say sound more interesting. Here are some cool idioms you can use at work to sound like a pro.
English Idioms Related to Work
Here are some common work-related idioms, their meanings, and examples of how they might be used:
Climb the corporate ladder
- Meaning: To progressively move up through the ranks in a company or organization.
- Example: “She’s been working hard to climb the corporate ladder, taking on extra projects and working overtime.”
Burn the midnight oil
- Meaning: To work late into the night or early morning hours.
- Example: “We’re going to have to burn the midnight oil to get this project finished by the deadline.”
Get down to business
- Meaning: To start focusing on the important or necessary work at hand.
- Example: “Enough small talk, let’s get down to business and discuss the quarterly report.”
Think outside the box
- Meaning: To think creatively, not limited by conventional ideas or practices.
- Example: “We need some fresh ideas for this campaign, so try to think outside the box.”
Back to the drawing board
- Meaning: To start over, return to the planning stage after a failed attempt.
- Example: “Our proposal was rejected, so it’s back to the drawing board for us.”
Cut corners
- Meaning: To do something in the easiest or cheapest way, possibly compromising quality or ethics.
- Example: “We can’t afford to cut corners on this project; our reputation is at stake.”
Hit the ground running
- Meaning: To start something with great energy, enthusiasm, or efficiency.
- Example: “She hit the ground running in her new role and made significant improvements in the first month.”
Up to speed
- Meaning: Fully informed or current with the latest information or developments.
- Example: “We need to bring the new team members up to speed before the next meeting.”
Bring to the table
- Meaning: To provide something, such as a skill, an idea, or a resource, that can be used or is valuable.
- Example: “He brings a lot of experience in digital marketing to the table.”
Pull one’s weight
- Meaning: To do one’s fair share of work.
- Example: “Everyone needs to pull their weight if we’re going to complete this project on time.”
These idioms can add color and personality to conversations about work, whether in professional or casual settings.
