Show you the ropes
Posted by Bruce Kahl on June 23, 2003
In Reply to: Show you the ropes posted by Kit on June 23, 2003
: Does anyone know the origin of the phrase 'I'll show you the ropes'... ie. to show someone the basics/how something is done. Methinks it's a nautical term originally, but where from? Any suggestions?
: Cheers peeps.
: Kit
Not 100% on this but I think it has to do with showbusiness, with
the ropes being used by stagehands to open and close curtains, lower
props etc.
So if I am to "show you the ropes" then you are in training to learn
a skill.