Getting Things Done
These 12 idioms describe effort, teamwork and problem-solving — the language of actually getting work done.
Practice this set for free — no account needed. Loads 12 flashcards into the learner.
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Group these by what they describe: effort (pull your weight), creativity (think outside the box), or persistence (keep your eye on the ball).
All 12 flashcards
What does the idiom "think outside the box" mean?
To think creatively, beyond conventional ideas.
We need someone who can think outside the box for this campaign.
What does the idiom "pull your weight" mean?
To do your fair share of the work.
Everyone on the team needs to pull their weight.
What does the idiom "keep your eye on the ball" mean?
To stay focused on the most important goal or task.
With so many distractions, it’s hard to keep your eye on the ball.
What does the idiom "in the same boat" mean?
In the same difficult situation as someone else.
Half the team is behind on this deadline — we’re all in the same boat.
What does the idiom "put your heads together" mean?
To work together and combine ideas to solve a problem.
Let’s put our heads together and figure this out.
What does the idiom "pick up the slack" mean?
To do extra work to cover for someone who is not doing their share.
When he was out sick, the rest of us picked up the slack.
What does the idiom "get the hang of it" mean?
To learn how to do something well after some practice.
It took a while, but he finally got the hang of the new software.
What does the idiom "wear many hats" mean?
To have many different roles or responsibilities.
At a small startup, everyone wears many hats.
What does the idiom "on the same page" mean?
In agreement, having the same understanding about something.
Let’s make sure we’re all on the same page before the meeting.
What does the idiom "raise the bar" mean?
To increase the standard or expectation for something.
Their new product raised the bar for the whole industry.
What does the idiom "go above and beyond" mean?
To do much more than what is expected or required.
She went above and beyond to make sure the launch went smoothly.
What does the idiom "take the lead" mean?
To take charge or responsibility for a task or project.
He took the lead on the new client account.
What to learn next
Next: Level 3, "Meetings and Deadlines" — the phrases that carry a meeting.
Continue to Level 3: Meetings and Deadlines →