KNOW THE ROPES Definition & Meaning

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know the ropes

To be familiar with the details of an operation: “You won't have to train the new computer operator; she already knows the ropes.”

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Idioms and Phrases

Be informed about the details of a situation or task. For example, Don't worry about Sara's taking over that reporter's job—she already knows the ropes . This expression alludes to sailors learning the rigging so as to handle a sailing vessel's ropes. It was being used figuratively by the late 1800s. The same allusion is present in show someone the ropes , meaning “to familiarize someone with the details,” as in Tom's very experienced—he'll show you the ropes .

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Example Sentences

Examples have not been reviewed.

Two possible consequences: a bigger ideological divide between the two major parties as old-time moderates retire, he said, and more power to staffers and lobbyists who know the ropes of the legislature.

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The advantage the Dudamel Fellows enjoy is that they know the ropes.

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She’s coming in like, “I know the ropes and I’ll try to show you,” but she’s doing it reluctantly.

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Asked to grade Meadows’s performance, Christie, who resisted Trump’s entreaties in 2018 to serve as chief of staff, said, “Incomplete, so far. . . . He’s still getting to know the ropes, getting used to everything, and working with this president up close every day is a much different experience than being one of his supporters on Capitol Hill. I’m sure the chief is learning that now.”

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“It is a real shame. I know the ropes. My French is good enough.”

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Definitions and idiom definitions from ��t¶�� Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023

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know the ropes

Idioms and Phrases

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