to teach someone how a place or system works · to introduce someone to the basics
Imagine arriving in a new city and feeling a bit lost. This phrase is perfect for when a friendly local offers to help you understand how things work! 🗺️ It's about getting someone up to speed with the local customs, transportation, or even just the best spots to eat.
💡 **Pro Tip!** This idiom comes from sailing, where experienced sailors would teach new recruits how to handle the ropes on a ship. ⚓️ So, it implies getting acquainted with the practicalities! You can use it when you're the one being helped or the one offering help. Just make sure to use 'the ropes' for the specific place or task, e.g., 'show you the ropes of this city'.
When would you most appropriately use 'to show someone the ropes'? A. 🗣️ When you are having a deep philosophical discussion. B. 🗺️ When you are helping a new visitor understand how to navigate a city. C. 🏃 When you are challenging someone to a race.