PhrasesHub

roll up our sleeves

    Definitions

      • prepare for hard work
        To get ready to work hard or tackle a difficult task

      • get to work
        To start working on something or put effort into a task

    Examples of roll up our sleeves

    • The CEO announced that we need to roll up our sleeves and tackle the new project head-on.

      This idiom is used to signify that we need to prepare ourselves mentally and physically for a challenging task or situation. It essentially means to put in extra effort and hard work to accomplish something difficult. Rolling up one's sleeves also has a practical purpose in a work setting, as it prepares us to physically do the work required.

    • Although it's a hot summer day, we need to roll up our sleeves and help our neighbor clean out their storm-damaged yard.

      This idiom conveys the idea that we should be willing to put in the necessary work and effort, even if it's not immediately appealing or convenient. Caring for our neighbor is the right thing to do, and helping them clean up their yard after a storm is an example of how we can support our community.

    • After a year of planning, we're finally ready to roll up our sleeves and launch the new product line.

      This idiom highlights the sense of anticipation and excitement that comes with finally being ready to take action. The planning and preparation are complete, and now it's time to roll up our sleeves and get the product line off the ground. This use of the idiom implies that we're eager to see the results of our hard work and dedication.

    • The team leader asked us to roll up our sleeves and brainstorm ideas for improving the company's marketing strategy.

      This idiom is used to convey the idea that we should be prepared to think creatively and generate a lot of ideas. By rolling up our sleeves, we're literally and figuratively removing any barriers that might prevent us from generating new ideas. This use of the idiom shows that the team leader is looking for fresh perspectives and wants everyone to contribute their unique ideas to the conversation.

    • Let's roll up our sleeves and get to work on this project.

      The phrase "let's roll up our sleeves" is used to signify that we are ready to take action and get something accomplished. It's a idiom that comes from the literal act of preparing to perform manual labor, where you roll up your sleeves on your shirt to avoid getting dirt or grease on your clothes. But in a broader sense, it's become a common expression for diving into any kind of task or project, whether it's physical or mental work.

    • The CEO was so excited about the new initiative that he rolled up his sleeves and took charge.

      In this example, the CEO's enthusiasm for the project was so strong that he didn't just delegate tasks to others; he got directly involved in the work. By "rolling up his sleeves," the CEO expressed his willingness to lead by example and put in the hard work necessary to make the initiative successful.

    • The teachers rolled up their sleeves and worked tirelessly to prepare for the upcoming school year.

      This example shows that the teachers were proactive in their preparations, rather than simply waiting for things to happen. By "rolling up their sleeves," the teachers conveyed their commitment to the task at hand and their determination to do everything in their power to ensure a successful school year.

    • It's time to roll up our sleeves and tackle this problem head-on.

      This final example uses the idiom in a direct and urgent way, implying a sense of urgency and focus. By "rolling up our sleeves," we are signaling that we are ready to confront the problem with a determined and hands-on approach, rather than merely acknowledging it or ignoring it.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "roll up our sleeves" is commonly used to convey the intention of preparing for hard work or getting to work. It is often used to signify the readiness to tackle a difficult task or to put effort into a particular project. The idiom is typically used in a figurative sense to indicate a willingness to engage in hard work or to face challenges head-on. It can also be used to encourage others to start working on something with determination and resolve.

    Origin of "roll up our sleeves"

    The origin of the idiom "roll up our sleeves" can be traced back to the literal act of rolling up one's sleeves before engaging in physical labor or manual work. The act of rolling up sleeves is a practical step taken to avoid getting them dirty or wet while working, and it has become a symbolic gesture of readiness to tackle a task. Over time, the idiom has evolved to encompass the idea of preparing for hard work or getting to work in a broader sense, beyond just physical labor. The phrase has become ingrained in the English language as a metaphor for readiness and determination to face challenges.

    Examples of the idiom can be found in literature, such as in motivational speeches, self-help books, and everyday conversations. Its widespread usage has solidified its place as a common expression in the English language.