trick(s) of the trade
Meaning(s)
1. a shortcut or a fast and effective way of doing something
Popularity
High
Professional
Low
Social
How to Memorize
learn the tricks of the trade
Analysis
This expression refers to special skills, techniques, or methods used by professionals to do something in a quicker, easier, or more efficient way. These special skills are learned or picked up through experience as part of doing one's job or performing a task or activity regularly. They tend to be associated with a particular trade or profession and are little known by outsiders. It can be used negatively, such as when referring to taking a shortcut to do something rather than being thorough. The expression is used mainly in a professional context and is similar to the phrases 'know-how,' and 'business savvy.'
Social Examples (Basic)
- My mother has been baking for years, she knows all the little tricks of the trade.
- There are a few tricks of the trade you need to know if you are trying to sell your home.
Professional Examples (Advance)
- Being able to make a clear and effective sales pitch is a major trick of my trade. It is, therefore, something I have worked on a lot over the years.
- I'm lucky that I have a mentor in the office to teach me some of the tricks of the trade.
- Jack is a very smart and canny operator. He knows all the tricks of the trade.