something that is a typical or normal part of a person's job
The idiom "all in a day's work" originated in the world of work and describes a situation or task that is considered routine or typical for a particular person or profession. It can be used to describe a range of scenarios, such as when someone responds to an emergency situation, handles a difficult customer, or completes a challenging project.
used when one is back to doing one's job and normal activities at work, particularly after a leave or vacation
The idiom "in harness" originated in the world of horse-drawn transportation and refers to a situation where a horse is harnessed to a carriage or other vehicle. It can be used to describe a range of scenarios, such as when a team is working together on a project, when a worker is performing a task with dedication and focus, or when a group is working towards a common goal.
to combine enjoyable activities with one's work
The idiom "mix business with pleasure" refers to the act of combining work or business activities with leisure or recreational activities. The term is often used as a cautionary phrase to advise against engaging in activities that blur the line between work and personal life, and to emphasize the importance of maintaining a professional demeanor in business settings.
a draining and stressful lifestyle that consists of constantly competing with others for success, wealth, power, etc. and so leaving no room for rest and pleasure
The term "rat race" originates from the world of rat-catching, where rats were pitted against each other and the winner was the one that escaped. This idiom is typically used to describe the hectic and competitive nature of modern life, particularly in urban areas.
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to have work-related discussions outside of work, particularly when it is annoying or inappropriate
The origin of the idiom "talk shop" is unclear, but it likely dates back to at least the 19th century. The word "shop" here refers to a workplace or profession, and the phrase "talk shop" means to discuss work-related topics. It is typically used to describe a conversation that is focused on work-related topics, often between colleagues or people in the same profession.
used to refer to the lack of communication between the different parts of an organization about their roles or activities that leads to confusion and dysfunction
The idiom "the right does not know what the left is doing" is a biblical reference that appears in the New Testament, specifically in the book of Matthew. It is typically used to describe a situation where there is a lack of coordination or communication among different parts of an organization or group.
official procedures or rules that are unnecessary and time-consuming
The idiom "red tape" has its origins in 16th century England where legal documents were bound by red tape as a way of showing that they were official. This phrase is typically used to describe excessive bureaucracy or official procedures which can hinder or delay progress.
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to no longer make new entries when an accounting period is at its end
The idiom "close the books" comes from the accounting or financial world, where it refers to the process of finalizing a company's financial records at the end of an accounting period. It is typically used in a business or financial context to describe the completion of a particular accounting period.
conflict between the people of an organization or company that leads to unpleasant situations
The origin of the idiom "blood on the carpet" is unclear, but it likely comes from the idea of a violent confrontation or conflict, where blood is spilled on the carpet. This phrase is typically used to describe a situation where there is a serious problem or conflict that needs to be addressed or resolved.
a person who holds the highest rank in a particular group or organization
The idiom "top dog" comes from the world of dog fighting, where the top dog was the most successful or dominant fighter. It is typically used to describe a person or organization that is dominant or successful in their field.
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a person or thing that has recently joined a specific place, field, company, group, etc.
The idiom "new kid on the block" originated in the mid-20th century and referred to a new person in a neighborhood or community. The term "block" is used metaphorically to represent a neighborhood or community. It is used to describe a person who is new to a particular environment or situation.
something or someone that has been at a place for so long that one no longer notices them
The phrase "part of the furniture" originated in the early 20th century and referred to a person or thing that had been in a particular place or organization for so long that they were like a piece of furniture. The term "furniture" is used metaphorically to represent the idea of something that is permanent and immovable. It is often used in work or professional contexts, where someone may have worked for an organization for many years.
to control and manage an organization, group, business, etc. in a manner that is very strict, efficient, and effective
The idiom "run a tight ship" is believed to have originated in the maritime industry in the 19th century. This idiom is typically used to describe a person, organization, or situation that is well-organized, efficient, and disciplined.
to have a disagreement with someone or something that provides one's primary source of income or livelihood
The idiom "fall out with one's bread and butter" is a metaphorical expression that refers to a situation where someone has a major disagreement or conflict with their primary source of income or livelihood. The exact origin of the idiom is unclear, but it likely dates back to the early 20th century. It is typically used to describe a situation where someone has a falling out or dispute with their employer, main client, or primary source of income. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
a period of time in which someone no longer works due to old age
The phrase "golden years" was first used in Shakespeare's play "Henry V" in 1599, where it referred to the later years of someone's life. It is used to describe the later years of someone's life, typically from retirement age onwards.
Grammatical Information:
a job that does not provide one with the chance to advance to a better position or job
The phrase "dead-end job" originated in the early 20th century, and it refers to a job that offers few opportunities for advancement or growth. The idiom "dead-end job" is used to describe a job that provides little or no opportunity for career advancement or personal growth. It is often associated with low-paying, menial work that is seen as unfulfilling or unsatisfying.
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a period of leisure or vacation spent engaging in activities related to one's job or profession
The phrase "busman's holiday" originated in the 19th century and refers to a situation where someone spends their time off doing the same type of work they do for a living. The term "busman" refers to a bus driver, but the phrase can be applied to any profession. It is used to describe a situation where someone spends their leisure time doing the same type of work they do for a living.
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people who are newly employed or admitted in order to provide the group, company, etc. with enthusiasm and new and exciting ideas
The idiom "new blood" originated in the 16th century and referred to the introduction of new people or ideas into an established group or organization. The term "blood" is used metaphorically to represent fresh energy or vitality. it is used to describe the introduction of new people, ideas, or approaches into an established group or organization.
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