Sample Response
Idiom in Action
Leading
Meetings
Ditch the robotic textbook phrases. Learn how to politely interrupt, keep things on track, and drive action like a natural.
“Let’s not get sidetracked.”
“Let’s get the ball rolling”
“I’m totally on board”
Warm-up Questions
What is the most common problem in meetings you attend?
Have you ever led a meeting?
How do you feel when you have to speak up in a large meeting?
Textbook vs. Real Life
Let’s commence the meeting.
Let’s kick things off.
Let’s get started.
What do you think about this?
What’s your take on this?
Any thoughts?
Please do not interrupt.
Hold that thought for a moment.
We must stay on the topic.
Let’s not get sidetracked.
Let’s stay on track.
I agree with you entirely.
I’m on the same page.
Spot on.
The meeting is finished.
Let’s wrap it up.
I think that covers it.
The Meeting Toolkit
Tap the blurred words to test yourself and reveal the answers!
1. Kicking Off
- • “Alright, let’s get down to business.”
- • “Our main goal for today is to…”
2. Steering the Flow
- • “Before we move on, any questions?”
- • “I’d love to get your input on this.”
- • “Let’s circle back to that later.”
3. Wrapping Up
- • “To sum things up quickly…”
- • “Next steps are…”
- • “Let’s call it a day. Good work.”
Meeting Roadmap
1. The Introduction
Recently, I’ve noticed that while everyone is working hard, we might not be recognizing or supporting each other as much as we could. That can affect motivation over time. I’d love to get your input on this—what do you think we’re currently doing well, and where can we improve?”
Team interaction & brainstorming session…
2. Steering the Flow
Alright, so let’s look at a few ideas. One option could be setting up a simple recognition system, where we highlight achievements weekly. Another idea might be having more regular check-ins, just to see how everyone is doing—not only with work, but overall.
I know someone mentioned team activities earlier—let’s circle back to that later after we go through a couple more practical ideas.”
Short discussion on practicalities…
3. Wrapping Up
To sum things up quickly, we’re looking at improving recognition, increasing communication, and possibly organizing small team activities. What are our action items? Let’s say we start by testing a weekly recognition message and scheduling short one-on-one check-ins.
Alright, if there’s nothing else to add, let’s call it a day. Good work.”
Scenario Practice
Business Idioms
Get the ball rolling
Get the ball rolling
To begin a process, project, or meeting.
“Alright, let’s get the ball rolling with the first agenda item.”
Take it offline
Take it offline
To discuss a topic privately after the meeting, so as not to waste everyone’s time.
“That’s a complex issue. Let’s take it offline later today.”
On the same page
On the same page
To have the same understanding or to be in agreement about a situation.
“Before we proceed, I want to make sure we are all on the same page.”
Let’s Chat
Do you prefer virtual meetings or in-person meetings? Why?
Have you ever had to lead a meeting in English?
Who’s the person you know that’s often long-winded?
What is the absolute worst meeting you have ever attended?
Do you think most meetings could just be an email instead?
Is it hard to speak up and share your ideas in a large group?
Ready for the Quiz
You’ve learned the tactics for managing professional conversations. Let’s test your new leadership phrases!
Podcast Recap Session
Listen to the Full Review
Reinforce what you’ve learned today by listening to our short recap covering all the key phrases and idioms from this lesson.