English Idioms

Comprehensive resource for understanding and mastering English idioms

Run a tight ship

Meaning

The idiom "run a tight ship" means to manage or control something efficiently, effectively, and with good organization. It is used to describe someone who is very skilled at keeping things running smoothly and maintaining order. The phrase can also imply strictness or harshness in management, as in a military operation.

Usage

  • The CEO is known for her ability to run a tight ship and keep the company on track despite challenges.
  • The teacher always runs a tight classroom, making sure that students stay focused and disciplined.
  • The project manager's efficient leadership ensured that the project ran smoothly and was completed on time.
  • The athlete's strict training routine helped him run a tight ship when it came to his performance on the field.
  • The military commander's leadership style was characterized by running a tight ship, with strict rules and disciplinary action for any disobedience.

Roots and History

The origin of the phrase "run a tight ship" is uncertain, but one theory suggests that it comes from the navy. Ships are notorious for being difficult to manage and maintain, especially during sea voyages. In the 18th century, a captain who was able to keep his ship's crew in line and avoid any accidents or problems would be considered a good leader, much like a modern CEO who can run an efficient organization. Over time, the phrase has evolved to include more general management concepts, such as business operations or personal life. Today, anyone who is skilled at keeping things organized and running smoothly is said to "run a tight ship."

Synonyms in English

  • Manage efficiently
  • Keep things under control
  • Maintain order
  • Stay on track
  • Keep things running smoothly

Synonyms in other languages

  • 管理有效率地 (Japanese) - To manage effectively and efficiently.
  • 治理有效率地 (Chinese) - To govern or manage effectively and efficiently.
  • 조직적으로 운영하다 (Korean) - To operate an organization in a systematic and organized manner.
  • 관리도움이 있는 (German) - To have good management or leadership support.
  • 효율적으로 운영하다 (Greek) - To manage or run something efficiently.

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