Show somebody/know/learn the ropes
idiom
To teach or learn the basics of something.
My first week at the new job was overwhelming, but my colleague helped me learn the ropes.
Often appears as...
- learn the ropes
- show the ropes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To explain to someone how to do a job or activity.
Since I've worked here longer, my boss asked me to show the new employee the ropes.
Often appears as...
- show the ropes to someone
- learn the ropes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To understand how to do something, or how something works.
After being on the job for a month, I feel like I finally know the ropes.
Often appears as...
- know the ropes
- learn the ropes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To teach or learn the basics of something.
My first week at the new job was overwhelming, but my colleague helped me learn the ropes.
Often appears as...
- learn the ropes
- show the ropes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To explain to someone how to do a job or activity.
Since I've worked here longer, my boss asked me to show the new employee the ropes.
Often appears as...
- show the ropes to someone
- learn the ropes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
idiom
To understand how to do something, or how something works.
After being on the job for a month, I feel like I finally know the ropes.
Often appears as...
- know the ropes
- learn the ropes
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 3
Pro Tip 1/2Workplace Context
Often used in professional settings to describe being trained on a new job.
I was nervous about using the software, but my manager is helping me learn the ropes.
Pro Tip 2/2First Experience
Implies inexperience and the process of becoming familiar with something.
Joining the debate team was daunting, but the captain is helping me learn the ropes.
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