This lesson covers common idiomatic expressions used in business contexts, particularly when addressing challenges and overcoming obstacles. Each idiom is defined and illustrated with an example sentence.
Throw in the towel
Definition:
To give up or quit; to admit defeat or stop trying to achieve something.
Example: After months of trying to fix the old car, he finally threw in the towel and bought a new one.
Turn a blind eye
Definition:
To deliberately ignore something; to pretend not to notice something that you know is happening.
Example: Management cannot turn a blind eye to employee complaints about workplace safety.
Take a step back
Definition:
To pause and consider a situation more carefully; to distance yourself temporarily to gain better perspective.
Example: When the project got too complicated, we decided to take a step back and reassess our priorities.
Hit the nail on the head
Definition:
To describe exactly what is causing a situation or problem; to be precisely correct.
Example: When you said our pricing was too high, you really hit the nail on the head—that's exactly why sales have been slow.
Tap into
Definition:
To use or exploit a resource, knowledge, or market; to access and make use of something valuable.
Example: The company plans to tap into the growing market for sustainable products.