lɜːrn ðə roʊps
Work
informal
beginner
- Literally:
- To learn how to use the ropes on a ship
What does "learn the ropes" mean?
- To learn the basics of a job or activity
- To become familiar with procedures and expectations
Examples
- It takes a few months to learn the ropes in any new job.
- She's still learning the ropes but making good progress.
- Once you learn the ropes, the job gets easier.
Origin
From sailing—new sailors had to learn the complex system of ropes that controlled the sails. Essential knowledge for functioning on a ship.
How to use it
Common for new employees or beginners. Implies a learning curve.
Similar expressions
get the hang of it
learn the basics
get oriented
Opposites
be inexperienced
struggle
remain unfamiliar
Related idioms
- hit the nail on the head
To describe exactly what is true or important
- call it a day
To stop working for the day
- have one's hands full
To be very busy with something
- it's not rocket science
It's not difficult to understand or do
- get your act together
To organize yourself and start behaving more responsibly
- hit the books
To study intensively
Use it in a practice answer
Try "learn the ropes" in a CELPIP-style Speaking or Writing task. The AI feedback tells you whether your word choice worked.