✔ Game changer - something such as a product or event that affects a situation very much.
- Netflix creating original content is a game changer.
✔ Get/keep the ball rolling - start an activity or project, or maintain progress on an activity or project, respectively.
- You'll definitely become more comfortable with driving if you keep the ball rolling with your driving lessons.
✔ Hotshot - a conspicuously successful or talented person, or one who believes himself or herself to be especially successful or talented; often used sarcastically or derogatorily.
- If you’re such a hotshot, why not straighten out the whole thing?
✔ On the ball - Attentive, knowledgeable, and quick to take action.
- I can't believe Molly got that report done so quickly—she's really on the ball.
✔ Out of bounds - contrary to or in violation of acceptable rules, conventions, or standards.
- I thought Tom's comments were totally out of bounds for a dinner discussion, but I didn't feel it was my place to chide him.
✔ Stay ahead of the game - Gaining or maintaining an advantage in a situation, often by completing a task before its given deadline.
- My term paper isn't due until next week, but I want to be ahead of the game and finish it tonight.
✔ Take sides - support one faction or position at the extent of the other.
- They were arguing, but I didn't want to take sides, so I left.
✔ Team player - someone who gets along well with others or is loyal to a cause.
- John's always been a real team player, never hesitating to chip in or help others out where he can.
✔ Time out - a pause or break to assess a situation or provide time for reflection, or removal of a child from an activity as a form of punishment.
- Take time out for lunch. Your textbooks will still be here when you get back.
- If you keep throwing your toys like that, I'm going to give you a time out!