Communicating Naturally - Idioms

Question 1

In a nutshell, e.g., I will summarise the findings of the report in a nutshell, providing a high-level overview of the insights.

Answer 1

In summary

Question 2

A ballpark figure, e.g., I will give you a ballpark figure for the cost of the data project, based on past projects of similar scope.

Answer 2

An estimate

Question 3

To touch base (with), e.g., Let’s schedule a meeting to touch base with the stakeholders and ensure that the project was on track.

Answer 3

To contact (someone)

Question 4

To do things by the book, e.g., We always adhere to the industry’s best practices to do things by the book when cleaning and analyzing the data.

Answer 4

To comply strictly with the rules

Question 5

To go back to square one, e.g., We discovered a major flaw in the data, and had to go back to square one to correct the issue before continuing the analysis.

Answer 5

To restart

Question 6

To learn the ropes, e.g., I spent a few weeks mentoring the new intern to help her learn the ropes of data cleaning and analysis.

Answer 6

To learn the basics