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Learn the ropes

//ˈlɜːn ðə ˈɹəʊps// verb, slang

Definitions

Verb
  1. 1
    To learn the basics or master introductory knowledge. informal

    "Work slowly and cautiously until you have learned the ropes."

  2. 2
    To learn some skill requiring specialist knowledge. informal

    "While it is unlikely that [Lonny] Baxter plays a significant role immediately, he will be able to learn the ropes of interior play from such veterans as [Dikembe] Mutumbo, Yao [Ming], and [Juwan] Howard."

Etymology

Of nautical origin: in the past, the phrase “he knows the ropes” written on a seaman’s discharge meant that he was inexperienced and familiar only with a ship’s principal ropes.

See also for "learn the ropes"

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