- To be familiar with and understand the procedures, rules, or details of a particular job, activity, or organization; to be experienced and knowledgeable about how things work in a specific context.
Explanation
Origin
- Widely believed to originate from sailing. Sailors needed extensive knowledge of how to handle the complex system of ropes (ropes and lines) on sailing ships to control the sails and rigging. Someone who knew the ropes was experienced and competent.
- The phrase implies practical, hands-on knowledge.
Synonyms & Related Expressions
Alternatives
Slang/Informal:
- Know what's what.
- Have it down pat (know something perfectly)
- Be clued-up / Clued-in (be knowledgeable/informed)
- Know the ins and outs.
Vulgar/Emphatic:
- Know one's shit. (Vulgar but common way to say someone is very competent)
Milder/Standard:
- Be proficient in the procedures.
- Have a thorough understanding of the process.
- Be well-versed in the operations.
Situational Appropriateness
- Appropriate in most informal and semi-formal contexts, especially work or activity-related discussions.
- Generally fine in professional settings when referring to competence and experience.
Misunderstanding Warnings
- Non-native speakers might initially think of literal ropes, but the context of procedures, jobs, or systems usually clarifies the idiomatic meaning.
Examples
- Ask Sarah for help; she really knows the ropes around here.
- It takes a few weeks to learn the job, but soon you'll know the ropes.
- He's new to the industry and doesn't quite know the ropes yet.
Dialogue
New Employee: I'm a bit lost with this reporting system.
Team Lead: Don't worry, it takes time. Talk to Mike in accounting – he really knows the ropes when it comes to this software.
New Employee: Oh, great! Thanks for the tip.
Team Lead: No problem. He'll get you up to speed.
Social Media Examples
- LinkedIn Recommendation: Sarah quickly learned the processes and now truly knows the ropes. She's a valuable asset to any team.
- Tweet: Starting a new job next week! Excited but also nervous about learning the ropes. Any tips? #NewJob #Career
- Forum Post: Looking for advice on navigating the local council bureaucracy. Need someone who knows the ropes!
Response Patterns
- That's good to know, I'll ask her.
- Yeah, she's been here for ages.
- I hope I learn them quickly! (If referring to oneself)
- He'll get there eventually. (If referring to someone inexperienced)
Common Follow-up Questions/Actions
After identifying someone who knows the ropes:
- People might decide to seek advice or help from that person.
- They might express relief at having an experienced person available.
When talking about learning the ropes:
- Discussion might turn to training, onboarding processes, or the learning curve involved.
Conversation Starter
- No.
- Usually used to describe someone's existing knowledge or the process of gaining it.
Intonation
- Emphasis typically on knows and ropes. She really KNOWS the ROPES.
- Usually spoken with a tone of confidence or assurance about someone's competence.
Generation Differences
- Widely understood across generations. The sailing origin might be less known, but the meaning is common.
Regional Variations
- Common in all major English-speaking regions.