English Idioms
Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms
Crack the whip
Meaning
The idiom "crack the whip" means to start something or someone off with a task or project, often by issuing orders, setting expectations, or giving instructions. It is used when someone needs to get going on a task or project, and the person issuing the command wants to motivate them to start working.
Usage
- The boss cracked the whip and ordered everyone in the office to start working on the new project at once.
- My teacher always cracks the whip when we have a test coming up. She expects us to be studying hard every day.
- I was surprised when my friend asked me to help him with his new business idea. I hadn't realized he had been cracking the whip on this project for months.
- My family always cracks the whip when we go on vacation. We have a strict schedule that everyone needs to follow to make sure everything runs smoothly.
- As a new employee, it took me a while to get used to the way my boss cracks the whip. He's very demanding and expects a lot from his team, but he also knows how to motivate them to achieve their goals.
Roots and History
The origin of this idiom is not entirely clear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th or early 20th century. It may be related to the traditional use of a whip to order animals or people around, or it may simply be a metaphorical way of saying "let's get going." The usage of this idiom has remained relatively consistent over time, but it is worth noting that in some contexts, it may be seen as more casual or informal. For example, a boss who cracks the whip might use more authoritative language or body language, while a friend who cracks the whip on a project might be more lighthearted and playful.
Synonyms in English
- Get started
- Begin work
- Initiate action
- Launch an endeavor
- Commence a task
Synonyms in other languages
- French: "Commencer à travailler" (to begin working)
- Spanish: "Empezar a trabajar" (to begin working)
- German: "Anfangen zu arbeiten" (to begin working)
- Italian: "Iniziare a lavorare" (to begin working)
- Japanese: "作業を始めます" (to begin working)