English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Know the ropes

Meaning

The idiom "know the ropes" means to have a thorough understanding or knowledge of something, especially in regards to its procedures, practices, or ways of doing things. It can also refer to being familiar with a certain situation or set of circumstances.

Usage

  • I'm still getting used to the new job, but once I know the ropes, it should be smooth sailing.
  • The tourists in my city are known for not knowing the ropes when it comes to driving, which can cause a lot of traffic and accidents.
  • The experienced hiker knew the ropes when it came to navigating through the dense forest trails.
  • As an artist, I've been painting for years now, but I still need to know the ropes before I can start selling my work in galleries.
  • My grandma may be 80, but she still knows the ropes when it comes to playing cards and beating me every time.

Roots and History

The idiom "know the ropes" dates back to the late 19th century in the United States, where it was first used to refer to sailors who had experience at sea and knew how to handle themselves on a ship. Over time, the phrase has evolved to refer to anyone who has mastered a certain skill or knowledge area.

Synonyms in English

  • Understand the ins and outs of something.
  • Get the hang of it.
  • Master the subject.
  • Acquire the necessary knowledge.
  • Get a feel for it.

Synonyms in other languages

  • 知道評估 (Zhīdào jìnggōu) - Chinese language for "to understand and evaluate"
  • לוחה משקן תוךנים (Luachamishkan Tovkanoim) - Hebrew language for "to acquire knowledge"
  • فريدكن سىنانه قلعبكن (Firidken sana'na'he qal'abken) - Persian language for "to learn and know"
  • الإنجازات تحلقكن مُحيمدون (Al-e'njadat tahlaqkun muhamidoun) - Arabic language for "to acquire experience"
  • عصير البحلول (Esir al-bahrawul) - Turkish language for "to know and understand"

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