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We're playing catch-up

Definition

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"We're playing catch-up" is a common phrase used to describe a situation where someone or a group is trying to make up for lost time or progress. It suggests that they are behind schedule or lagging behind in some way and need to work harder or faster to reach the same level as others. This expression often implies a sense of urgency and a need to accelerate efforts to close the gap between the current status and the desired position.

Moreover, "We're playing catch-up" can also convey a sense of competitiveness or pressure to keep pace with rivals or competitors who are ahead. It may indicate that others have made significant advancements or achieved certain milestones while the individual or group in question has fallen behind. This phrase is frequently used in various contexts, such as business, sports, or academic settings, where there is a need to overcome setbacks or deficiencies quickly. It underscores the importance of taking proactive measures to regain lost ground and stay competitive in the pursuit of goals or objectives.

Example sentences

With our competitors already launching their marketing campaigns, we're playing catch-up to devise a strategy.

The new team member is playing catch-up to get up to speed with the project requirements.

Our company is playing catch-up in the technology sector, striving to innovate and stay competitive.

After missing our sales targets last quarter, we're playing catch-up to boost performance this quarter.

Following a period of restructuring, we're playing catch-up to regain market share.

Business idioms

idioms

phrases

Colloquialisms

Corporate expressions

Workplace communication

workplace jargon

Linguistic expressions

w2u

way2unknown

The phrase "Written in the stars" refers to the belief that certain life events are predetermined by cosmic forces, rooted in ancient astrology. This idea can offer comfort and a sense of meaning, suggesting a greater plan at work. However, relying too heavily on this belief can lead to exhaustion or complacency, as it may diminish personal agency. Balancing this perspective with vigilance and proactive decision-making empowers individuals to shape their destinies, regardless of celestial influences.

Anchor the Decision

This idiom emphasizes the importance of decisiveness and commitment in making choices, highlighting the need to stand by one’s decisions once they have been made. Ultimately, anchoring a decision signifies a deliberate and thoughtful approach to decision-making that prioritizes clarity, rationale, and steadfastness.

A picture is worth a thousand words

The phrase "a picture is worth a thousand words" emphasizes the power of imagery to convey complex ideas more effectively than words alone. Visuals capture emotions and details, preserving moments that might otherwise fade into oblivion. However, if misleading images infest communication, they can distort perceptions and spread false narratives. Ultimately, images inspire and connect with people on an emotional level, often expressing what words cannot fully convey.

Up a creek without a paddle

The idiom "up a creek without a paddle" describes being in a difficult situation with no apparent solution, likening it to being stranded on a river without a means to navigate. It underscores a state of helplessness and often implies a lack of preparation. For example, a project manager facing unexpected challenges without key resources would feel the pressure of impending deadlines and client expectations. Despite the difficulty, resourcefulness and resilience can help one find a way out of such predicaments.

Anchor the risk ship

Ultimately, the idiom emphasizes the significance of risk management and the proactive approach to dealing with uncertainties. By anchoring the risk ship effectively, individuals and organizations can navigate challenges more confidently and increase the likelihood of a successful outcome in the face of potential risks.

We're playing catch-up

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