Phrases & Expressions

Creative thinking that is not limited by what seems practical now.

• Let's have some blue-sky thinking for the new product.
• Blue-sky thinking is encouraged in this phase.

To pay someone so that the person keeps quiet or does what you want.

• They tried to buy off the witness before the trial.
• The company tried to buy off its critics with expensive gifts.

To increase a bet or effort, especially when the situation is risky.

• The company decided to double down on research.
• In blackjack, you can double down after seeing your first two cards.

Ensuring that leaders and departments within an organization agree on and work together towards common goals and strategies.

• Executive alignment is vital for implementing new policies.
• We need better executive alignment across all divisions.

Meaning that permission must be obtained before an action can be taken.

• The sign on the airfield gate said "Prior permission required".
• Is prior permission required for this event?

A short, exciting promotional video highlighting key moments or achievements.

• The marketing team created a sizzle reel for the new campaign.
• Check out the sizzle reel to see the highlights.

A customer interview to test if your proposed solution meets their needs.

• After the problem interview, we scheduled a solution interview.
• Solution interviews refine the product based on feedback.

To deal with dangerous, ruthless people, especially in business.

• Investing in that company felt like swimming with sharks.
• He's used to swimming with sharks in business.

To increase the pressure on someone or the intensity of a situation.

• The police turned up the heat on the suspect.
• The manager is turning up the heat to get the project finished on time.

To complete the financial accounts for a month or year.

• We need to close the books by Friday.
• Accountants work late at the end of the year to close the books.