119 Best Workplace Idioms for Engaging ESL Classes

Workplace idioms are an important part of everyday conversations at work. Learning these idioms helps ESL learners sound more natural and confident when speaking English in the office or professional settings.

This post is the best resource for teachers who want to bring real-life language into their ESL classrooms. It offers a large collection of workplace idioms that students can use right away.

It is useful to use them to teach workplace vocabulary and common workplace expressions that make conversations easier and more interesting. Each idiom comes with examples and simple questions to help students practice speaking.

Teachers can create role-plays and debates using these idioms to make lessons fun and interactive. These activities encourage students to think, speak, and use new language naturally.

By using this post, you will save time planning your lessons and give your students the tools to succeed in English-speaking workplaces. Dive in and make your classes lively with useful workplace idioms!

1. Across the board

Meaning:
For everyone or everything in a group or company.

Example Sentences:

1. The boss said there will be a salary increase across the board.
2. We made changes across the board to improve teamwork.
3. Across the board, the team did better this month.

Context Questions:

1. Has your school or job ever made a change that affected everyone?
2. Can you think of a time when all workers got the same reward or punishment?
3. What is one rule you think should apply across the board in a workplace?

2. Ahead of the curve

Meaning:
Doing better than others or doing something before others.

Example Sentences:

1. Our company stays ahead of the curve by using the newest technology.
2. She is always ahead of the curve when it comes to learning new skills.
3. We want our team to be ahead of the curve in customer service.

Context Questions:

1. Do you know someone who always learns new things before others?
2. How can a business stay ahead of the curve?
3. Have you ever felt ahead of the curve in school or at work?

3. All hands on deck

Meaning:
Everyone must help or work together, especially in a busy or difficult time.

Example Sentences:

1. It’s all hands on deck during the big sale next week.
2. We need all hands on deck to finish this project on time.
3. When the boss comes to visit, it’s all hands on deck to clean the office.

Context Questions:

1. When was a time everyone in your class or job had to help out?
2. Why do some tasks need all hands on deck?
3. Can you describe a time when teamwork helped finish something fast?

4. At the eleventh hour

Meaning:
At the last possible moment, almost too late.

Example Sentences:

1. He finished the report at the eleventh hour.
2. We signed the deal at the eleventh hour before the deadline.
3. She booked her flight at the eleventh hour and still made it.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever done something at the eleventh hour? What was it?
2. Why do people sometimes wait until the eleventh hour to do things?
3. What are the risks of doing work at the eleventh hour?

5. At the end of the day

Meaning:
When everything is finished or considered; the final result or truth.

Example Sentences:

1. At the end of the day, the customer’s happiness is most important.
2. We had many problems, but at the end of the day, the event was a success.
3. At the end of the day, we must stay within our budget.

Context Questions:

1. What do you think is most important at the end of the day in your job or studies?
2. Can you share a time when things turned out okay at the end of the day?
3. How do you decide what matters most at the end of the day?

6. Back to the drawing board

Meaning:
To start over again because the first plan didn’t work.

Example Sentences:

1. Our idea was rejected, so it’s back to the drawing board.
2. The design failed, and we had to go back to the drawing board.
3. We went back to the drawing board after the client gave feedback.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever had to start over after a plan failed?
2. What would you do if your project idea didn’t work?
3. Why is it sometimes good to go back to the drawing board?

7. Back to square one

Meaning:
To return to the beginning after something goes wrong.

Example Sentences:

1. The file got deleted, so we’re back to square one.
2. After the software crash, we went back to square one.
3. We didn’t get approval, so now it’s back to square one.

Context Questions:

1. When did you last feel like you had to start everything again?
2. What’s one reason people go back to square one in the workplace?
3. How do you feel when you have to go back to square one?

8. Ballpark figure

Meaning:
An estimate or guess, not the exact number.

Example Sentences:

1. Can you give me a ballpark figure for the cost?
2. We need a ballpark figure to plan the budget.
3. The manager asked for a ballpark figure before starting the project.

Context Questions:

1. When do you use ballpark figures in your work or studies?
2. Why are ballpark figures useful in meetings?
3. Can you give a ballpark figure of how much you spend weekly?

9. Bang for the buck

Meaning:
Getting good value for the money or effort you spend.

Example Sentences:

1. This new software gives us more bang for the buck.
2. We want more bang for the buck from our marketing.
3. Buying in bulk gives better bang for the buck.

Context Questions:

1. What is something that gave you good bang for the buck?
2. How do companies try to get more bang for the buck?
3. Can you think of a product or service that isn’t worth the buck?

10. Beat the clock

Meaning:
To finish something before the deadline or time limit.

Example Sentences:

1. We worked fast to beat the clock on the final report.
2. She beat the clock and submitted the form just in time.
3. The team beat the clock by staying late at the office.

Context Questions:

1. When have you tried to beat the clock at school or work?
2. What helps you beat the clock when you’re in a rush?
3. Do you usually finish tasks early or beat the clock?

11. Behind the scenes

Meaning:
Happening in secret or not shown to the public.

Example Sentences:

1. A lot of planning happens behind the scenes.
2. The tech team works hard behind the scenes.
3. She handles many problems behind the scenes.

Context Questions:

1. What kind of work happens behind the scenes in your school or job?
2. Why is behind-the-scenes work important?
3. Have you ever done something important behind the scenes?

12. Bend over backwards

Meaning:
To try very hard to help someone or do something.

Example Sentences:

1. He bent over backwards to meet the deadline.
2. They bent over backwards to fix the mistake.
3. She bent over backwards to please the client.

Context Questions:

1. When have you bent over backwards to help someone?
2. What’s something you did at work that required extra effort?
3. Why do people bend over backwards in customer service?

13. Big picture

Meaning:
The overall view or main idea, not the small details.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s focus on the big picture before the meeting.
2. She always sees the big picture in planning.
3. The manager explained the big picture first.

Context Questions:

1. Why is it important to think about the big picture at work?
2. Can you give an example of focusing on the big picture instead of small details?
3. Do you think you’re more of a big picture person or detail-focused?

14. Bite the bullet

Meaning:
To do something difficult or unpleasant that you can’t avoid.

Example Sentences:

1. I didn’t want to present, but I bit the bullet and did it.
2. He bit the bullet and told the boss the truth.
3. She bit the bullet and accepted the tough assignment.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever had to bite the bullet and do something hard?
2. Why is it sometimes necessary to bite the bullet at work?
3. What advice would you give to someone who needs to bite the bullet?

15. Blue-sky thinking

Meaning:
Creative ideas without limits or rules.

Example Sentences:

1. The team had a blue-sky thinking session to come up with new products.
2. We need some blue-sky thinking to solve this problem.
3. During brainstorming, blue-sky thinking is encouraged.

Context Questions:

1. When is a good time to use blue-sky thinking?
2. Can you think of a creative idea you had at work or school?
3. How can blue-sky thinking help a team?

16. Bottom line

Meaning:
The final result or the most important thing, often about money.

Example Sentences:

1. The bottom line is that we need to save money.
2. What’s the bottom line after all these changes?
3. The bottom line improved after the new policy.

Context Questions:

1. What’s the bottom line of your current project or goal?
2. How can a company improve its bottom line?
3. Why is it important to focus on the bottom line?

17. Break even

Meaning:
To earn as much money as you spend, not gain or lose.

Example Sentences:

1. We need to sell 100 items to break even.
2. The business broke even in its second year.
3. They didn’t make a profit, but at least they broke even.

Context Questions:

1. Why do businesses try to break even first?
2. Can you think of a time when you just broke even?
3. What can help a new business break even faster?

18. Bring to the table

Meaning:
To offer something useful to a team or project.

Example Sentences:

1. She brings a lot of experience to the table.
2. What do you bring to the table in your team?
3. He brought fresh ideas to the table during the meeting.

Context Questions:

1. What skills do you bring to the table in a group project?
2. Why is it good to bring different things to the table?
3. What did someone else bring to the table that helped your team?

19. Burn the midnight oil

Meaning:
To work late into the night.

Example Sentences:

1. He burned the midnight oil to finish the presentation.
2. I had to burn the midnight oil before my exam.
3. The team burned the midnight oil all week.

Context Questions:

1. When did you last burn the midnight oil? Why?
2. How do you feel after burning the midnight oil?
3. What helps you stay focused when working late?

20. Business as usual

Meaning:
Everything is normal, even if something big happened.

Example Sentences:

1. After the power cut, it was business as usual.
2. Even during the storm, it was business as usual.
3. The team continued with business as usual after the changes.

Context Questions:

1. Can you give an example of business as usual after a problem?
2. Why is it helpful to keep business as usual during stress?
3. How do workplaces return to business as usual?

21. By the book

Meaning:
To follow all the rules exactly.

Example Sentences:

1. He does everything by the book.
2. The audit showed we handled things by the book.
3. The new manager wants us to do it by the book.

Context Questions:

1. Do you usually work by the book or more freely?
2. Why do some jobs need you to follow rules by the book?
3. Can you think of a time when someone didn’t do something by the book?

22. Call it a day

Meaning:
To stop working for the day.

Example Sentences:

1. We finished the report, so let’s call it a day.
2. I’m tired—time to call it a day.
3. After eight hours of work, they called it a day.

Context Questions:

1. When do you usually call it a day?
2. Why is it important to know when to call it a day?
3. What helps you decide it’s time to call it a day?

23. Call the shots

Meaning:
To be the one in control or who makes the decisions.

Example Sentences:

1. In this project, she calls the shots.
2. Who’s calling the shots in your team?
3. The manager called the shots during the meeting.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever called the shots in a group?
2. Why is it important to know who’s calling the shots?
3. What happens when too many people try to call the shots?

24. Circle back

Meaning:
To return to a topic or task later.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s circle back to this after lunch.
2. We’ll circle back once we get more information.
3. I’ll circle back to you with an update tomorrow.

Context Questions:

1. When is it a good idea to circle back?
2. Can you remember a time you had to circle back to something?
3. What helps you remember to circle back later?

25. Climb the corporate ladder

Meaning:
To move up in a company by getting better jobs.

Example Sentences:

1. He’s been climbing the corporate ladder for years.
2. She hopes to climb the corporate ladder quickly.
3. Promotions help people climb the corporate ladder.

Context Questions:

1. Do you want to climb the corporate ladder? Why or why not?
2. What helps someone climb the corporate ladder?
3. Have you seen someone climb the corporate ladder?

26. Close the loop

Meaning:
To finish something by giving all information or answers.

Example Sentences:

1. Please close the loop with the client.
2. We need to close the loop on this issue today.
3. I’ll send the final email to close the loop.

Context Questions:

1. Why is it important to close the loop in communication?
2. Have you ever forgotten to close the loop? What happened?
3. What can help you remember to close the loop?

27. Cut corners

Meaning:
To do something badly or cheaply to save time or money.

Example Sentences:

1. Don’t cut corners on safety.
2. The company cut corners and the quality dropped.
3. We can’t afford to cut corners on this task.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever seen someone cut corners? What happened?
2. Why is cutting corners sometimes risky?
3. What are better ways to save time without cutting corners?

28. Cut to the chase

Meaning:
To get to the main point quickly.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s cut to the chase—what’s the problem?
2. He cut to the chase and explained the plan.
3. We don’t have time, so cut to the chase.

Context Questions:

1. When is it helpful to cut to the chase?
2. Can you think of a time someone didn’t cut to the chase?
3. How do you feel when someone cuts to the chase?

29. Deep dive

Meaning:
To look at something in great detail.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s take a deep dive into the report.
2. We did a deep dive on customer feedback.
3. The manager asked for a deep dive into the issue.

Context Questions:

1. When should you take a deep dive into something?
2. Have you ever done a deep dive in your work or study?
3. What tools help you do a deep dive?

30. Dot the i’s and cross the t’s

Meaning:
To pay attention to every small detail.

Example Sentences:

1. She always dots the i’s and crosses the t’s.
2. We need to dot the i’s and cross the t’s before sending the file.
3. The editor dotted the i’s and crossed the t’s.

Context Questions:

1. Why is it important to dot the i’s and cross the t’s?
2. Have you ever missed a detail by not doing this?
3. What helps you double-check your work?

31. Down the line

Meaning:
In the future.

Example Sentences:

1. We’ll review this again down the line.
2. More changes may come down the line.
3. Think about how this will affect things down the line.

Context Questions:

1. What plans do you have down the line?
2. Why is it good to think about the future down the line?
3. Can you give an example of a goal for down the line?

32. Drop the ball

Meaning:
To make a mistake or miss a responsibility.

Example Sentences:

1. I dropped the ball on the deadline.
2. Don’t drop the ball during the event.
3. He dropped the ball and forgot the email.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever dropped the ball? What happened?
2. How can we avoid dropping the ball at work?
3. What should you do after someone drops the ball?

33. Drill down

Meaning:
To look at something more closely or in more detail.

Example Sentences:

1. We need to drill down into the data.
2. Let’s drill down on the problem.
3. They drilled down and found the real issue.

Context Questions:

1. When should you drill down into a topic?
2. What does it mean to drill down in your study or work?
3. What tools help you drill down?

34. Elephant in the room

Meaning:
A big problem no one wants to talk about.

Example Sentences:

1. We need to talk about the elephant in the room.
2. The budget cuts are the elephant in the room.
3. No one mentioned the elephant in the room.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever noticed an elephant in the room?
2. Why do people avoid talking about big problems?
3. How can you bring up the elephant in the room?

35. End of the day

Meaning:
When everything is done or considered.

Example Sentences:

1. At the end of the day, we all want success.
2. End of the day, results matter.
3. It’s your decision at the end of the day.

Context Questions:

1. What matters most to you at the end of the day?
2. Why do people use this phrase in meetings?
3. How do you summarize things at the end of the day?

36. Eye on the ball

Meaning:
To stay focused on what’s important.

Example Sentences:

1. Keep your eye on the ball during this project.
2. He lost the job because he didn’t keep his eye on the ball.
3. You’ll do well if you keep your eye on the ball.

Context Questions:

1. What helps you keep your eye on the ball?
2. When did you lose focus and take your eye off the ball?
3. Why is it important to stay focused at work?

37. Fast track

Meaning:
To speed up progress or development.

Example Sentences:

1. She was fast-tracked for promotion.
2. The company wants to fast track the project.
3. They fast-tracked the new product launch.

Context Questions:

1. When might you want to fast track a task?
2. Have you ever been fast-tracked in your work or studies?
3. What are the risks of fast tracking something?

38. Fire on all cylinders

Meaning:
To work at full power or ability.

Example Sentences:

1. The team is firing on all cylinders today.
2. We need to fire on all cylinders to meet the deadline.
3. He was firing on all cylinders during the presentation.

Context Questions:

1. How do you feel when you are firing on all cylinders?
2. What helps you work at full power?
3. Can you think of a time you were not firing on all cylinders?

39. First mover advantage

Meaning:
The benefit gained by being the first to do something.

Example Sentences:

1. The company gained first mover advantage in the market.
2. First mover advantage helped them win customers.
3. They lost first mover advantage by starting late.

Context Questions:

1. What are the benefits of first mover advantage?
2. Can being first also be risky? Why?
3. Have you seen an example of first mover advantage?

40. Fly under the radar

Meaning:
To avoid attention or notice.

Example Sentences:

1. She flies under the radar at work.
2. The project flew under the radar until the launch.
3. They want to fly under the radar during the changes.

Context Questions:

1. When might it be good to fly under the radar?
2. Have you ever tried to fly under the radar? Why?
3. What happens if you don’t fly under the radar in some situations?

41. Foot in the door

Meaning:
To get a chance to start something, especially a job.

Example Sentences:

1. This internship is my foot in the door.
2. Getting a foot in the door is important for a career.
3. She got her foot in the door through networking.

Context Questions:

1. What was your first foot in the door?
2. Why is it important to get a foot in the door?
3. How can you get your foot in the door at work?

42. From the ground up

Meaning:
To build or start something completely from the beginning.

Example Sentences:

1. They built the company from the ground up.
2. We are developing this product from the ground up.
3. He learned the business from the ground up.

Context Questions:

1. Have you built something from the ground up?
2. What challenges come from starting from the ground up?
3. Why is it important to understand how something works from the ground up?

43. Game changer

Meaning:
Something that changes the situation in a big way.

Example Sentences:

1. The new software was a game changer for the company.
2. That idea could be a real game changer.
3. The technology became a game changer in the industry.

Context Questions:

1. Can you think of a game changer in your work or life?
2. Why do game changers matter?
3. How do you recognize a game changer early?

44. Get down to business

Meaning:
To start working seriously on something.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s get down to business and finish this project.
2. After the meeting started, they got down to business.
3. It’s time to get down to business and stop talking.

Context Questions:

1. When do you usually get down to business?
2. How do you prepare to get down to business?
3. What helps you stay focused when getting down to business?

45. Get the ball rolling

Meaning:
To start something.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s get the ball rolling on the new plan.
2. Who will get the ball rolling for the project?
3. We got the ball rolling with the first meeting.

Context Questions:

1. How do you get the ball rolling on a task?
2. What happens if you don’t get the ball rolling?
3. Can you share a time you got the ball rolling successfully?

46. Get your ducks in a row

Meaning:
To get organized.

Example Sentences:

1. Before the presentation, get your ducks in a row.
2. She always gets her ducks in a row before big meetings.
3. We need to get our ducks in a row for the event.

Context Questions:

1. How do you get your ducks in a row?
2. Why is it important to be organized?
3. What tools help you get your ducks in a row?

47. Go the extra mile

Meaning:
To do more than what is expected.

Example Sentences:

1. She always goes the extra mile for her clients.
2. Going the extra mile can help you get a promotion.
3. He went the extra mile to finish the project on time.

Context Questions:

1. When have you gone the extra mile?
2. Why do people go the extra mile?
3. How can you encourage others to go the extra mile?

48. Go-to person

Meaning:
A person others rely on for help or information.

Example Sentences:

1. She is the go-to person for IT problems.
2. He became the go-to person in the office.
3. Who is your go-to person for advice?

Context Questions:

1. Are you a go-to person for something?
2. Why is it important to be a go-to person?
3. How can you become a go-to person at work?

49. Green light

Meaning:
Permission to start something.

Example Sentences:

1. We got the green light to start the project.
2. The boss gave us the green light yesterday.
3. Without the green light, we can’t proceed.

Context Questions:

1. When have you received a green light at work?
2. Why is getting the green light important?
3. What do you do if you don’t get the green light?

50. Groundbreaking

Meaning:
Something very new and important.

Example Sentences:

1. The company made a groundbreaking discovery.
2. That was a groundbreaking idea in the industry.
3. Groundbreaking research can change the world.

Context Questions:

1. Can you name a groundbreaking invention?
2. Why is groundbreaking work important?
3. How do people recognize groundbreaking ideas?

51. Hands are tied

Meaning:
Unable to act because of rules or limits.

Example Sentences:

1. My hands are tied; I can’t approve this.
2. The manager’s hands are tied by company policy.
3. Sometimes our hands are tied by budget limits.

Context Questions:

1. When have your hands been tied at work?
2. How do you handle situations when your hands are tied?
3. Can you think of a time others had their hands tied?

52. Hit the ground running

Meaning:
To start a task with energy and speed.

Example Sentences:

1. She hit the ground running on her first day.
2. We need to hit the ground running with this project.
3. The new team member hit the ground running.

Context Questions:

1. How do you prepare to hit the ground running?
2. What helps you keep up the energy?
3. Can you share a time you hit the ground running?

53. Hit the nail on the head

Meaning:
To describe something exactly right.

Example Sentences:

1. You hit the nail on the head with your answer.
2. His comment hit the nail on the head.
3. She hit the nail on the head about the problem.

Context Questions:

1. When have you hit the nail on the head?
2. Why is it important to be accurate?
3. How can you practice hitting the nail on the head?

54. Hold the fort

Meaning:
To take care of things while someone is away.

Example Sentences:

1. Can you hold the fort while I’m gone?
2. She held the fort during the manager’s absence.
3. We all help hold the fort in busy times.

Context Questions:

1. Have you ever held the fort?
2. What challenges come with holding the fort?
3. How do you prepare to hold the fort?

55. Hot potato

Meaning:
A difficult or sensitive issue.

Example Sentences:

1. The budget cuts are a hot potato.
2. That topic is a hot potato at work.
3. They passed the hot potato to another team.

Context Questions:

1. Can you think of a hot potato at your workplace?
2. How do you handle hot potato topics?
3. Why do people avoid hot potatoes?

56. In a nutshell

Meaning:
To say something briefly.

Example Sentences:

1. In a nutshell, we need more time.
2. Let me explain the plan in a nutshell.
3. The report, in a nutshell, is positive.

Context Questions:

1. How do you explain things in a nutshell?
2. When is it good to be brief?
3. Can you summarize something in a nutshell now?

57. In the driver’s seat

Meaning:
In control or in charge.

Example Sentences:

1. She is in the driver’s seat for this project.
2. The CEO is in the driver’s seat of the company.
3. You are in the driver’s seat now.

Context Questions:

1. When have you been in the driver’s seat?
2. What skills help you stay in control?
3. How do you take the driver’s seat?

58. In the loop

Meaning:
Kept informed or involved.

Example Sentences:

1. Please keep me in the loop.
2. They kept the team in the loop about changes.
3. I want to stay in the loop on this project.

Context Questions:

1. How do you stay in the loop?
2. Why is being in the loop important?
3. Have you been left out of the loop before?

59. In the pipeline

Meaning:
In progress or planned.

Example Sentences:

1. There are new products in the pipeline.
2. The project is still in the pipeline.
3. We have several ideas in the pipeline.

Context Questions:

1. What projects do you have in the pipeline?
2. How do you manage work in the pipeline?
3. What delays can happen in the pipeline?

60. In the same boat

Meaning:
In the same situation or problem.

Example Sentences:

1. We’re all in the same boat with this issue.
2. Everyone in the company is in the same boat.
3. Being in the same boat helps us support each other.

Context Questions:

1. Can you describe a time you were in the same boat as others?
2. How does it feel to be in the same boat?
3. How can people help each other when they are in the same boat?

61. In the works

Meaning:
Being planned or developed.

Example Sentences:

1. A new policy is in the works.
2. The website update is in the works.
3. Changes are in the works for next year.

Context Questions:

1. What projects are in the works at your company?
2. How do you prepare for things in the works?
3. Have you ever worked on something in the works?

62. Iron out the details

Meaning:
To solve small problems or make final decisions.

Example Sentences:

1. We need to iron out the details before the meeting.
2. Let’s iron out the details of the contract.
3. They spent hours ironing out the details.

Context Questions:

1. When do you iron out the details?
2. How do you solve small problems?
3. Can you share a time you ironed out details successfully?

63. Jump on the bandwagon

Meaning:
To join others in doing something popular.

Example Sentences:

1. Many companies jumped on the bandwagon of remote work.
2. He jumped on the bandwagon when everyone started using the app.
3. Don’t just jump on the bandwagon without thinking.

Context Questions:

1. When have you jumped on the bandwagon?
2. Why do people jump on the bandwagon?
3. How do you decide if you should join?

64. Jump through hoops

Meaning:
To do many difficult tasks to achieve something.

Example Sentences:

1. We had to jump through hoops to get the approval.
2. She jumped through hoops to finish the project on time.
3. Sometimes, you must jump through hoops at work.

Context Questions:

1. What hoops have you jumped through at work?
2. How do you stay motivated when jumping through hoops?
3. Can jumping through hoops be helpful sometimes?

65. Keep one’s eye on the ball

Meaning:
To stay focused on the goal.

Example Sentences:

1. Keep your eye on the ball during the presentation.
2. She kept her eye on the ball despite distractions.
3. It’s important to keep your eye on the ball at work.

Context Questions:

1. How do you keep your eye on the ball?
2. What distractions do you face?
3. Why is focus important?

66. Keep someone in the loop

Meaning:
To keep someone informed.

Example Sentences:

1. Please keep me in the loop about the project.
2. They kept the manager in the loop at all times.
3. It’s good to keep the team in the loop.

Context Questions:

1. Who do you keep in the loop?
2. How do you keep people informed?
3. What happens when someone is out of the loop?

67. Kick the can down the road

Meaning:
To delay dealing with a problem.

Example Sentences:

1. They are just kicking the can down the road on this issue.
2. Don’t kick the can down the road; solve it now.
3. Sometimes managers kick the can down the road.

Context Questions:

1. When have you seen someone kick the can down the road?
2. Why do people delay problems?
3. How can you avoid kicking the can?

68. Knock it out of the park

Meaning:
To do something very well.

Example Sentences:

1. She knocked it out of the park with her presentation.
2. The team knocked it out of the park on the project.
3. Try to knock it out of the park in your next task.

Context Questions:

1. When did you knock it out of the park?
2. What helps you perform very well?
3. How do you prepare to knock it out of the park?

69. Learn the ropes

Meaning:
To learn how to do a job.

Example Sentences:

1. It took me a week to learn the ropes.
2. New employees need time to learn the ropes.
3. He quickly learned the ropes at his new job.

Context Questions:

1. How did you learn the ropes at your job?
2. What was hard when learning the ropes?
3. How can you help others learn the ropes?

70. Leverage

Meaning:
To use something to achieve more.

Example Sentences:

1. We leveraged our network to find new clients.
2. She leveraged her skills to get a promotion.
3. Leverage your experience to improve results.

Context Questions:

1. What can you leverage at work?
2. How do you use your strengths as leverage?
3. Can leveraging sometimes be risky?

71. Low-hanging fruit

Meaning:
Easy tasks or goals.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s start with the low-hanging fruit.
2. Fixing small bugs is the low-hanging fruit.
3. The team focused on low-hanging fruit first.

Context Questions:

1. What is low-hanging fruit in your work?
2. Why start with low-hanging fruit?
3. What happens after low-hanging fruit is done?

72. Move the goalposts

Meaning:
To change the rules or conditions unfairly.

Example Sentences:

1. They moved the goalposts after we finished the work.
2. It’s frustrating when managers move the goalposts.
3. Don’t move the goalposts during the project.

Context Questions:

1. Have you seen goalposts moved at work?
2. How do you respond when this happens?
3. Why is it important to keep rules clear?

73. Move the needle

Meaning:
To make a noticeable difference.

Example Sentences:

1. This project will really move the needle for sales.
2. Small changes can move the needle over time.
3. We want to move the needle on customer satisfaction.

Context Questions:

1. What can move the needle in your job?
2. How do you measure progress?
3. Why is moving the needle important?

74. No-brainer

Meaning:
An easy decision.

Example Sentences:

1. Hiring her was a no-brainer.
2. This task is a no-brainer for experienced workers.
3. Choosing that software was a no-brainer.

Context Questions:

1. What no-brainer decisions have you made?
2. Why do some decisions feel easy?
3. When should you think more before a no-brainer?

75. Not going to fly

Meaning:
Not acceptable or will not work.

Example Sentences:

1. That idea is not going to fly with the boss.
2. Cutting the budget like that is not going to fly.
3. Some excuses are just not going to fly here.

Context Questions:

1. What ideas have you seen not going to fly?
2. How do you handle rejected ideas?
3. How can you improve ideas so they fly?

76. Off the record

Meaning:
Not for public knowledge or official use.

Example Sentences:

1. What I say is off the record.
2. The manager shared off the record information.
3. Sometimes people talk off the record in meetings.

Context Questions:

1. When is it important to speak off the record?
2. How do you respect off the record talks?
3. What risks come with off the record info?

77. On a shoestring budget

Meaning:
With very little money.

Example Sentences:

1. They started the project on a shoestring budget.
2. We have to manage this on a shoestring budget.
3. The startup worked on a shoestring budget at first.

Context Questions:

1. Have you worked on a shoestring budget?
2. How do you save money at work?
3. What challenges come with a small budget?

78. On the back burner

Meaning:
Delayed or not a priority right now.

Example Sentences:

1. The project is on the back burner for now.
2. We put the marketing plan on the back burner.
3. Some tasks go on the back burner during busy times.

Context Questions:

1. What do you put on the back burner?
2. How do you decide what to delay?
3. How do you handle back burner tasks later?

79. On the same page

Meaning:
Agreeing or understanding each other.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s make sure we are on the same page.
2. The team is on the same page about goals.
3. We had a meeting to get on the same page.

Context Questions:

1. How do you get on the same page with others?
2. What happens when people are not on the same page?
3. How can you check understanding?

80. Out of pocket

Meaning:
Unavailable or unreachable.

Example Sentences:

1. I’ll be out of pocket this afternoon.
2. The manager was out of pocket all day.
3. Sorry, I was out of pocket during the meeting.

Context Questions:

1. When are you usually out of pocket?
2. How do you inform others if you will be out of pocket?
3. What problems happen if someone is out of pocket?

81. Out of the loop

Meaning:
Not informed or involved.

Example Sentences:

1. I felt out of the loop on this project.
2. Don’t leave anyone out of the loop.
3. He was out of the loop about the changes.

Context Questions:

1. How do you avoid being out of the loop?
2. Have you ever been out of the loop?
3. What are the effects of being out of the loop?

82. Out of the woods

Meaning:
No longer in danger or trouble.

Example Sentences:

1. The company is out of the woods financially.
2. We are not out of the woods yet with this problem.
3. After the crisis, they finally felt out of the woods.

Context Questions:

1. When were you out of the woods at work?
2. How do you know when a problem is over?
3. What steps help to get out of the woods?

83. Pick your brain

Meaning:
To ask someone for advice or ideas.

Example Sentences:

1. Can I pick your brain about the project?
2. I want to pick your brain on marketing strategies.
3. She often picks her manager’s brain for help.

Context Questions:

1. When do you pick someone’s brain?
2. How do you ask politely to pick a brain?
3. What’s the best advice you’ve gotten this way?

84. Pivot

Meaning:
To change direction or strategy.

Example Sentences:

1. The company had to pivot after market changes.
2. Sometimes you must pivot quickly to stay successful.
3. We decided to pivot our approach last month.

Context Questions:

1. When have you needed to pivot?
2. What challenges come with pivoting?
3. How do you decide to pivot?

85. Put all your eggs in one basket

Meaning:
To risk everything on one plan.

Example Sentences:

1. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.
2. Investing in one stock is like putting all your eggs in one basket.
3. We spread tasks to avoid putting all eggs in one basket.

Context Questions:

1. Why is it risky to put all eggs in one basket?
2. How do you spread risks at work?
3. Have you seen problems from this before?

86. Put out fires

Meaning:
To deal with urgent problems.

Example Sentences:

1. We spent the day putting out fires.
2. Managers often have to put out fires.
3. Put out fires quickly to avoid bigger issues.

Context Questions:

1. What kind of fires do you put out at work?
2. How do you stay calm when putting out fires?
3. Can putting out fires stop long-term problems?

87. Put the cart before the horse

Meaning:
To do things in the wrong order.

Example Sentences:

1. Planning the party before choosing a date is putting the cart before the horse.
2. Don’t put the cart before the horse with this project.
3. Sometimes people put the cart before the horse by rushing.

Context Questions:

1. When have you seen the cart put before the horse?
2. Why is order important in work?
3. How can you avoid this mistake?

88. Quick win

Meaning:
An easy and fast success.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s find some quick wins to motivate the team.
2. Fixing small bugs can be a quick win.
3. Quick wins build confidence early on.

Context Questions:

1. What was your last quick win?
2. How do quick wins help projects?
3. When should you avoid quick wins?

89. Raise the bar

Meaning:
To set a higher standard.

Example Sentences:

1. This project will raise the bar for quality.
2. Our team always tries to raise the bar.
3. Raise the bar to improve customer service.

Context Questions:

1. How do you raise the bar in your work?
2. Why is raising the bar important?
3. What happens if standards are too low?

90. Read between the lines

Meaning:
To understand the hidden meaning.

Example Sentences:

1. You need to read between the lines in emails.
2. She read between the lines and understood the problem.
3. Reading between the lines helps avoid misunderstandings.

Context Questions:

1. When do you read between the lines?
2. How can you practice this skill?
3. Can reading too much between lines cause problems?

91. Red tape

Meaning:
Official rules that slow things down.

Example Sentences:

1. The project was delayed by red tape.
2. Too much red tape makes work frustrating.
3. They want to cut red tape to speed up processes.

Context Questions:

1. What red tape have you faced?
2. How can you handle red tape?
3. Why do some rules cause red tape?

92. Reinvent the wheel

Meaning:
To waste time creating something that already exists.

Example Sentences:

1. Don’t reinvent the wheel; use the existing template.
2. Reinventing the wheel slows down the project.
3. Sometimes people reinvent the wheel instead of asking.

Context Questions:

1. When have you reinvented the wheel?
2. Why is it better to use existing solutions?
3. How do you find what already exists?

93. Rock the boat

Meaning:
To cause trouble or disturb a situation.

Example Sentences:

1. He didn’t want to rock the boat with his opinion.
2. Sometimes you need to rock the boat for change.
3. Avoid rocking the boat during meetings.

Context Questions:

1. When is rocking the boat good or bad?
2. How do you express disagreement without rocking the boat?
3. Have you ever rocked the boat at work?

94. Run it up the flagpole

Meaning:
To test an idea and see people’s reaction.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s run this idea up the flagpole first.
2. He ran the proposal up the flagpole before the meeting.
3. Running it up the flagpole helps gather feedback.

Context Questions:

1. How do you run ideas up the flagpole?
2. When should you avoid doing this?
3. What feedback helps improve ideas?

95. Sandbox

Meaning:
A safe space to test ideas or projects.

Example Sentences:

1. The team used a sandbox to try new software.
2. We created a sandbox to test without risks.
3. Sandbox environments help avoid mistakes.

Context Questions:

1. When would you use a sandbox?
2. How does a sandbox help teams?
3. Can you share a time you tested something in a sandbox?

96. Seamless integration

Meaning:
Smoothly combining parts or systems.

Example Sentences:

1. We need seamless integration of our new software.
2. Seamless integration improves productivity.
3. The project had seamless integration between teams.

Context Questions:

1. Why is seamless integration important?
2. How can you achieve seamless integration?
3. What problems happen without it?

97. Shift gears

Meaning:
To change focus or approach quickly.

Example Sentences:

1. We had to shift gears after the deadline changed.
2. Shift gears when priorities change.
3. The manager told us to shift gears and start new tasks.

Context Questions:

1. When do you need to shift gears at work?
2. How do you help your team shift gears?
3. What’s challenging about shifting gears?

98. Shoot for the stars

Meaning:
To aim for a very high goal.

Example Sentences:

1. Our company always shoots for the stars.
2. Shoot for the stars, even if you miss.
3. She shoots for the stars in her career.

Context Questions:

1. What’s a goal you shot for recently?
2. Why is it good to shoot for the stars?
3. How do you stay motivated when goals are high?

99. Step up to the plate

Meaning:
To take responsibility or action.

Example Sentences:

1. It’s time to step up to the plate and lead.
2. She stepped up to the plate when the boss was absent.
3. Everyone needs to step up to the plate during busy times.

Context Questions:

1. When have you stepped up to the plate?
2. What stops people from stepping up?
3. How can leaders encourage others to step up?

100. Streamline

Meaning:
To make a process simpler and more efficient.

Example Sentences:

1. We need to streamline the reporting process.
2. Streamlining saved us a lot of time.
3. The company streamlined its operations last year.

Context Questions:

1. What can you streamline in your work?
2. How do you decide what to streamline?
3. What benefits come from streamlining?

101. Synergy

Meaning:
When teamwork creates better results than working alone.

Example Sentences:

1. Synergy between teams improves success.
2. The project shows great synergy among members.
3. We seek synergy in all collaborations.

Context Questions:

1. What does synergy look like in your workplace?
2. How do you build synergy?
3. Can synergy solve problems faster?

102. Take the bull by the horns

Meaning:
To face a difficult situation directly.

Example Sentences:

1. She took the bull by the horns and solved the problem.
2. It’s time to take the bull by the horns and start the project.
3. He took the bull by the horns during the meeting.

Context Questions:

1. When have you taken the bull by the horns?
2. Why is it important to face challenges directly?
3. How do you prepare to take the bull by the horns?

103. Take it offline

Meaning:
To discuss something privately later.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s take it offline and talk after the meeting.
2. We can take this offline to avoid delays.
3. The manager asked to take it offline for more details.

Context Questions:

1. When do you take things offline?
2. How do you suggest taking it offline politely?
3. What topics are better discussed offline?

104. Take ownership

Meaning:
To accept responsibility for something.

Example Sentences:

1. Employees should take ownership of their tasks.
2. She took ownership of the project and succeeded.
3. Taking ownership shows professionalism.

Context Questions:

1. How do you take ownership at work?
2. Why is ownership important?
3. How can managers encourage ownership?

105. Take the lead

Meaning:
To begin or direct a group or project.

Example Sentences:

1. He took the lead on the new campaign.
2. It’s your chance to take the lead.
3. Taking the lead requires confidence.

Context Questions:

1. When have you taken the lead?
2. What skills help you take the lead?
3. How do you support others who take the lead?

106. Test the waters

Meaning:
To try something carefully before fully committing.

Example Sentences:

1. We tested the waters with a small trial.
2. Test the waters before launching a new product.
3. They tested the waters by asking customer opinions.

Context Questions:

1. When do you test the waters at work?
2. What helps you test ideas safely?
3. What signs tell you to stop testing?

107. Think outside the box

Meaning:
To think in a new and creative way.

Example Sentences:

1. We need to think outside the box for solutions.
2. Thinking outside the box led to great ideas.
3. She always thinks outside the box.

Context Questions:

1. How do you encourage thinking outside the box?
2. When is outside-the-box thinking most useful?
3. Can thinking outside the box cause problems?

108. Throw in the towel

Meaning:
To give up or stop trying.

Example Sentences:

1. Don’t throw in the towel so soon.
2. He threw in the towel after many failures.
3. Sometimes it’s hard not to throw in the towel.

Context Questions:

1. When is it okay to throw in the towel?
2. How do you keep trying instead?
3. What motivates you not to give up?

109. Touch base

Meaning:
To make contact or update briefly.

Example Sentences:

1. Let’s touch base next week.
2. I’ll touch base with the team after lunch.
3. Touching base keeps everyone informed.

Context Questions:

1. How often do you touch base with colleagues?
2. What’s a good way to touch base?
3. Why is touching base important?

110. Turnkey solution

Meaning:
A complete and ready-to-use product or service.

Example Sentences:

1. They offer a turnkey solution for new offices.
2. A turnkey solution saves time and effort.
3. We bought a turnkey solution for our software needs.

Context Questions:

1. When is a turnkey solution helpful?
2. What should you check before buying one?
3. How do turnkey solutions affect project timelines?

111. Under the table

Meaning:
Something done secretly, often illegally.

Example Sentences:

1. They paid him under the table.
2. Sometimes companies make deals under the table.
3. Under the table payments are risky.

Context Questions:

1. Why do people do things under the table?
2. What are the risks of under the table actions?
3. How do you avoid under the table situations?

112. Up in the air

Meaning:
Uncertain or not decided yet.

Example Sentences:

1. The project timeline is still up in the air.
2. Our plans are up in the air due to changes.
3. It’s up in the air whether we will hire more staff.

Context Questions:

1. What things are up in the air in your workplace?
2. How do you handle up in the air situations?
3. How do you communicate uncertainty?

113. Up to speed

Meaning:
Fully informed or up to date.

Example Sentences:

1. I need to get up to speed on the new system.
2. The new employee is up to speed now.
3. Let’s bring everyone up to speed before the meeting.

Context Questions:

1. How do you get up to speed quickly?
2. Why is being up to speed important?
3. How do you help others get up to speed?

114. Value-added

Meaning:
Extra benefit beyond the basic service or product.

Example Sentences:

1. We provide value-added services to customers.
2. Value-added features help us stand out.
3. The value-added training improved employee skills.

Context Questions:

1. What value-added services do you offer?
2. How can you add value to your work?
3. Why is value-added important for business?

115. Vent one’s spleen

Meaning:
To express anger or frustration.

Example Sentences:

1. She vented her spleen after the meeting.
2. Sometimes it’s good to vent your spleen carefully.
3. He vented his spleen about the delays.

Context Questions:

1. When do you vent your spleen at work?
2. How do you do it professionally?
3. How can venting help or hurt?

116. Wear many hats

Meaning:
To have many roles or responsibilities.

Example Sentences:

1. She wears many hats in the small company.
2. Wearing many hats can be challenging.
3. I wear many hats as a manager and trainer.

Context Questions:

1. What hats do you wear at work?
2. How do you manage multiple roles?
3. When is it hard to wear many hats?

117. Win-win situation

Meaning:
A result that benefits everyone involved.

Example Sentences:

1. The deal was a win-win situation for both companies.
2. Win-win situations build good relationships.
3. We always look for win-win outcomes.

Context Questions:

1. Can you describe a recent win-win situation?
2. How do you create win-win deals?
3. Why are win-win situations important?

118. Work smarter, not harder

Meaning:
Use better methods to be more efficient, not just work longer.

Example Sentences:

1. We should work smarter, not harder to meet goals.
2. Using tools helps us work smarter, not harder.
3. He believes in working smarter, not harder.

Context Questions:

1. How do you work smarter, not harder?
2. What tools help you work smarter?
3. Why is this idea useful?

119. Yes man

Meaning:
A person who always agrees with their boss or group.

Example Sentences:

1. He is a yes man who never disagrees.
2. Being a yes man can limit your ideas.
3. Don’t be a yes man; share your opinions.

Context Questions:

1. Have you met a yes man at work?
2. Why is it important not to be a yes man?
3. How can you respectfully disagree?

Conclusion

Workplace idioms add color and meaning to everyday English at work. Using them in your ESL class helps students understand real conversations and communicate more naturally.

This resource gives you many practical idioms with examples and questions, so you can easily plan engaging lessons.

By including workplace idioms in your teaching, you prepare learners for real-life situations and boost their confidence.

Encourage your students to practice these idioms in conversations, role-plays, and debates to make learning fun and effective.

FAQs about Using Workplace Idioms in ESL Class

Q1: Why should I teach workplace idioms to ESL students?
Teaching workplace idioms helps students understand common expressions they will hear at work. It improves their listening and speaking skills and makes their English sound more natural.

Q2: How can I introduce workplace idioms in class?
Start with simple explanations and examples. Use role-plays, questions, and conversations so students can practice using the idioms in real situations.

Q3: Are workplace idioms difficult for ESL learners?
Some idioms can be tricky, but breaking them down with examples and context makes them easier to understand and remember.

Q4: How do I encourage students to use idioms?
Create activities like debates, role-plays, or group discussions where students need to use idioms to express ideas clearly.

Q5: Can workplace idioms be used for all levels of learners?
Yes, but choose idioms that match your students’ English level. Start with common and easy idioms, then gradually add more complex ones.

Q6: How often should I teach new workplace idioms?
Introduce a few idioms each week and review them regularly. Repetition helps students remember and use idioms confidently.

Q7: Can workplace idioms improve writing skills?
Yes, idioms add style and natural flow to writing, especially in emails, reports, and presentations.

Q8: Are all workplace idioms formal?
No, some idioms are informal and better for casual conversations. Teach students when and where to use each idiom appropriately.

Q9: How can I assess students’ understanding of idioms?
Use quizzes, role-plays, and speaking tasks to see if students use idioms correctly and naturally.

Q10: Where can I find more resources on workplace idioms?
Check this post regularly and explore other ESL teaching materials focused on vocabulary, conversations, and common expressions.