Focused listening library
Business idioms in context
Learn workplace idioms by listening to how they function in realistic professional conversations.
My hands are tied
A manager wants to approve your request, but company policy gives her no permission. Which phrase explains her lack of freedom to act?
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Off the top of my head
Someone asks for last year's exact sales figure, but you have no report in front of you. Which phrase can qualify your answer from memory?
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On the back burner
You still want to redesign the office, but an urgent customer problem must come first. Which phrase shows that the redesign is delayed, not abandoned?
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On thin ice
An employee has ignored two warnings and is late again. Which phrase shows that another mistake could bring serious consequences?
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Set your heart on
Your friend wants one particular university place so much that every alternative feels disappointing. Which expression describes that emotional commitment?
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Smooth sailing
The first stage was difficult, but every later step worked without delay or confusion. Which phrase describes that trouble-free progress?
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Take your mind off something
You are waiting anxiously for test results, and a funny film gives you two hours of relief. Which phrase describes this change of attention?
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On the line
A failed presentation could cost a manager her position. Which phrase shows that her job faces a serious risk?
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Out of the ordinary
A normally quiet street is filled with musicians at sunrise. Which phrase describes this noticeable departure from the usual pattern?
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Play it by ear
Tomorrow's picnic depends on unpredictable weather, so you will decide after seeing the sky. Which phrase describes that flexible approach?
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Pull your weight
Four people share a project, and each completes a reasonable part instead of leaving the work to others. Which idiom describes that fair contribution?
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Put into perspective
A cost sounds enormous until you learn it is less than one percent of the total budget. Which phrase describes what that comparison does?
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Ring a bell
You recognise a person's name but cannot remember where you heard it. Which phrase expresses that incomplete feeling of recognition?
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Spur of the moment
You pass a theatre, see two available tickets, and immediately decide to attend. Which phrase describes that sudden unplanned decision?
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How this practice helps
Workplace idioms can express agreement, pressure, risk, or a decision. The situation helps you judge both meaning and tone.
Choose an expression relevant to your work. Check the usage notes before trying it in your own conversation.
