8 English Idioms Hiding in Questions: Sound Like a Native Speaker

Do you ever hear native English speakers ask questions that seem to have hidden meanings?

For example:

“What’s your game plan?” (They’re not talking about sports!)
“Shall we get the ball rolling?” (There’s no ball involved!)
“Can you give me a ballpark figure?” (We’re not at a baseball game!)

These questions contain idioms—expressions with figurative meanings that are different from the literal words. Mastering them will help you understand native speakers better and sound more fluent yourself.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn:

✅ 8 essential English idioms that appear in questions
✅ Their meanings with clear explanations
✅ PLENTY of examples for each one
✅ Real-life conversation scenarios
✅ A practice quiz to test yourself
✅ Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s dive in!

Part 1: What Are Idioms?

Idioms are expressions where the meaning is different from the literal meaning of the individual words.

Example:

Literal: “Get the ball rolling” = Pick up a ball and roll it.
Idiom: “Get the ball rolling” = Start a project, discussion, or process.

In this lesson, you’ll learn 8 common idioms that are embedded in questions. These are frequently used in professional and everyday conversations.

Part 2: The 8 Idioms Hiding in Questions

1. “What’s your game plan?”

Meaning: What is your strategy, plan, or overall approach to achieving a specific goal?

Pronunciation: /wɒts jɔːr ɡeɪm plæn/

Context: This idiom comes from sports, where coaches create a “game plan” for winning. In everyday use, it means your strategy for getting something done.

Examples:

“We have a big presentation next week. What’s your game plan for preparing?”
“I need to finish this project by Friday. What’s your game plan?”
“What’s your game plan for finding a new job?”
“We’re launching a new product next month. What’s your game plan for marketing?”

More Examples:

“We have a tight deadline. What’s your game plan for completing the report?”
“I’m starting a new business. What’s your game plan for attracting customers?”
“We’re organizing a conference. What’s your game plan for getting speakers?”
“The team needs to improve sales. What’s your game plan for this quarter?”

Common Responses:

“My plan is to start by researching the market.”
“I’m going to focus on the most important tasks first.”
“I’ll create a timeline and work backward from the deadline.”

2. “What’s your take on this?”

Meaning: What is your personal opinion, view, or perspective on this matter?

Pronunciation: /wɒts jɔːr teɪk ɒn ðɪs/

Context: “Take” here means a viewpoint or interpretation. You’re asking someone to share their thoughts or analysis.

Examples:

“The company is considering a merger. What’s your take on this?”
“We’ve received some negative feedback. What’s your take on this?”
“The new policy seems confusing. What’s your take on this?”
“We need to decide on a location. What’s your take on this?”

More Examples:

“I think we should change our strategy. What’s your take on this?”
“The client seems unhappy with our proposal. What’s your take on this?”
“There’s been a lot of news about the economy. What’s your take on this?”
“We’re considering a new supplier. What’s your take on this?”

Common Responses:

“I think we should proceed cautiously.”
“My view is that we need to invest more in marketing.”
“From my perspective, this is a great opportunity.”

3. “Shall we get the ball rolling?”

Meaning: Shall we start this meeting, discussion, or task?

Pronunciation: /ʃæl wiː ɡet ðə bɔːl ˈroʊ.lɪŋ/

Context: This idiom refers to starting a process or activity. Once the ball starts rolling, it’s moving forward!

Examples:

“Everyone’s here. Shall we get the ball rolling on the agenda?”
“We have a lot to discuss. Shall we get the ball rolling?”
“The project team is assembled. Shall we get the ball rolling?”
“I think we’ve waited long enough. Shall we get the ball rolling?”

More Examples:

“We need to plan the event. Shall we get the ball rolling with the venue?”
“There’s been some confusion. Shall we get the ball rolling with a clear plan?”
“I’m ready to start. Shall we get the ball rolling?”

Common Responses:

“Yes, let’s get started.”
“Absolutely. Let’s begin.”
“Good idea. I’ll start with the first point.”

4. “Shall we call it a day?”

Meaning: Shall we end this meeting or work session for today?

Pronunciation: /ʃæl wiː kɔːl ɪt ə deɪ/

Context: This means ending the day’s work, especially when people are tired or progress has stalled.

Examples:

“It’s been a long meeting. Shall we call it a day?”
“We’ve made good progress. Shall we call it a day and continue tomorrow?”
“Everyone looks tired. Shall we call it a day?”
“We’re not making any more progress. Shall we call it a day?”

More Examples:

“I think we’ve done enough for today. Shall we call it a day?”
“It’s almost 6 PM. Shall we call it a day?”
“We’ve been working on this for hours. Shall we call it a day?”
“Let’s review what we’ve covered. Shall we call it a day?”

Common Responses:

“Yes, I think we’ve done enough.”
“Good idea. Let’s continue tomorrow.”
“I could use a break. Let’s call it a day.”

5. “Are we on the same page?”

Meaning: Do we all agree and share the same understanding?

Pronunciation: /ɑːr wiː ɒn ðə seɪm peɪdʒ/

Context: If people are reading the same page in a book, they’re looking at the same information. Similarly, if you’re “on the same page,” you have the same understanding or agreement.

Examples:

“I just explained the new policy. Are we on the same page?”
“We need to make sure everyone understands the plan. Are we on the same page?”
“I think we agree on the main points. Are we on the same page?”
“Let’s confirm our understanding. Are we on the same page?”

More Examples:

“I want to make sure we’re thinking the same way. Are we on the same page?”
“The team needs to be aligned. Are we on the same page?”
“We’ve discussed the strategy. Are we on the same page?”
“Let me check: are we on the same page about the timeline?”

Common Responses:

“Yes, I agree completely.”
“I think so, but let me clarify one point.”
“I’m not sure—could you explain that again?”

6. “Are we on the right track?”

Meaning: Is our current direction or strategy going to lead to success?

Pronunciation: /ɑːr wiː ɒn ðə raɪt træk/

Context: This checks whether your approach is correct or whether you need to change direction.

Examples:

“We’ve been working on this for two weeks. Are we on the right track?”
“The initial results look promising. Are we on the right track?”
“We’ve made some changes to the design. Are we on the right track?”
“I’m worried about our progress. Are we on the right track?”

More Examples:

“The project is halfway done. Are we on the right track to meet the deadline?”
“I’ve been following your instructions. Are we on the right track?”
“We’ve implemented the new system. Are we on the right track?”
“Let’s stop and check: are we on the right track?”

Common Responses:

“Yes, I think we’re doing well.”
“Actually, I think we need to change direction.”
“We’re on the right track, but we need to speed up.”

7. “Can you weigh in on this?”

Meaning: Can you contribute your thoughts, advice, or input on this topic?

Pronunciation: /kæn juː weɪ ɪn ɒn ðɪs/

Context: This asks someone to share their opinion or expertise. It’s often used in professional settings when you want to hear from someone with specific knowledge.

Examples:

“We’re discussing the marketing strategy. Can you weigh in on this?”
“I’d like to hear your opinion. Can you weigh in on this?”
“The team is divided on the proposal. Can you weigh in on this?”
“We need expert advice. Can you weigh in on this?”

More Examples:

“I’ve been thinking about the budget. Can you weigh in on this?”
“We need to decide on the location. Can you weigh in on this?”
“You have experience in this area. Can you weigh in on this?”
“We’ve received feedback from the client. Can you weigh in on this?”

Common Responses:

“Certainly. I think we should proceed with caution.”
“Thanks for asking. My view is that we need to invest more.”
“From my experience, I’d suggest we take a different approach.”

8. “Can you give me a ballpark figure?”

Meaning: Can you give me an approximate estimate rather than an exact calculation?

Pronunciation: /kæn juː ɡɪv miː ə ˈbɔːl.pɑːrk ˈfɪɡ.jər/

Context: A “ballpark figure” is a rough estimate. It’s based on the idea of a baseball stadium (ballpark), where you’re just aiming in the general direction.

Examples:

“We need to budget for the project. Can you give me a ballpark figure?”
“How much will this cost? Can you give me a ballpark figure?”
“I’m not sure exactly how much, but can you give me a ballpark figure?”
“The client is asking about the price. Can you give me a ballpark figure?”

More Examples:

“What do you think it will cost? Can you give me a ballpark figure?”
“I need to report to the manager. Can you give me a ballpark figure?”
“We’re estimating the expenses. Can you give me a ballpark figure?”
“I don’t need exact numbers—just a ballpark figure.”

Common Responses:

“I’d estimate around $10,000.”
“Probably between $5,000 and $7,000.”
“Roughly $50 per person.”

Part 3: Quick Reference Cheat Sheet

Question	Meaning	Example Answer
“What’s your game plan?”	What’s your strategy?	“I’m going to focus on research first.”
“What’s your take on this?”	What’s your opinion?	“I think we should proceed carefully.”
“Shall we get the ball rolling?”	Shall we start?	“Yes, let’s begin.”
“Shall we call it a day?”	Shall we end now?	“Good idea, let’s continue tomorrow.”
“Are we on the same page?”	Do we all agree?	“Yes, I understand completely.”
“Are we on the right track?”	Is our approach correct?	“I think we’re doing well.”
“Can you weigh in on this?”	Can you share your opinion?	“Certainly. My view is…”
“Can you give me a ballpark figure?”	Can you give an estimate?	“I’d estimate around $5,000.”

Part 4: Practice Quiz – Test Yourself!

Choose the correct idiom for each situation.

1. “We have a tight deadline. _______ for completing the project?”

(What’s your game plan / What’s your take on this / Shall we call it a day)

Answer: What’s your game plan — Asking for a strategy.

2. “The client seems unhappy with our proposal. _______?”

(What’s your game plan / What’s your take on this / Can you give me a ballpark figure)

Answer: What’s your take on this — Asking for an opinion.

3. “Everyone’s arrived. _______ with the presentation?”

(Shall we call it a day / Shall we get the ball rolling / Are we on the same page)

Answer: Shall we get the ball rolling — Proposing to start.

4. “It’s almost 6 PM. We’ve made good progress. _______?”

(What’s your game plan / Shall we call it a day / Can you weigh in on this)

Answer: Shall we call it a day — Proposing to end work for the day.

5. “I’ve explained the new policy. _______?”

(What’s your take on this / Are we on the same page / Can you give me a ballpark figure)

Answer: Are we on the same page — Checking if everyone understands.

6. “The initial results are promising. _______ to achieve our goal?”

(Are we on the right track / Can you weigh in on this / Shall we get the ball rolling)

Answer: Are we on the right track — Checking if the approach is correct.

7. “We’re deciding on the budget. _______, please?”

(What’s your game plan / Can you weigh in on this / Shall we call it a day)

Answer: Can you weigh in on this — Requesting someone’s input.

8. “I’m not sure exactly how much it will cost. _______?”

(What’s your take on this / Are we on the right track / Can you give me a ballpark figure)

Answer: Can you give me a ballpark figure — Asking for an estimate.

Part 5: Real-Life Conversation Examples

Example 1: A Business Meeting

Manager: “Alright everyone, shall we get the ball rolling?”
Team: “Yes, let’s start.”
Manager: “We have a new client next week. What’s your game plan for the presentation?”
Employee 1: “I’m going to focus on our strengths and past successes.”
Manager: “Great. What’s your take on this approach, Sarah?”
Sarah: “I think it’s a good plan. We should also highlight our unique features.”
Manager: “So are we on the same page?”
All: “Yes.”
Manager: “Excellent. Are we on the right track with the timeline?”
Employee 2: “I think so. We’re making good progress.”
Manager: “It’s been a productive meeting. Shall we call it a day and continue tomorrow?”
All: “Good idea.”
Manager: “Before we go, can you give me a ballpark figure for the budget?”
Finance: “I’d estimate around $15,000.”

Example 2: A Project Discussion

Project Lead: “We need to decide on the marketing strategy. What’s your take on this, Maria?”
Maria: “I think we should focus on digital marketing.”
Project Lead: “Interesting. Can you weigh in on this, John?”
John: “I agree with Maria. Digital is more cost-effective.”
Project Lead: “Good. Are we on the same page about the timeline?”
All: “Yes, we are.”
Project Lead: “Are we on the right track with the budget?”
Finance: “I think we are, but can you give me a ballpark figure for the campaign?”
John: “I’d estimate around $20,000.”
Project Lead: “Excellent. What’s your game plan for launching the campaign?”
Maria: “I’ll create a content calendar and start next month.”
Project Lead: “Great. Let’s get the ball rolling then!”

Example 3: A Family Planning Session

Parent: “We need to plan the family vacation. What’s your game plan for the trip?”
Child: “I think we should go to the beach.”
Parent: “What’s your take on this, David?”
David: “I agree with the kids. The beach is relaxing.”
Parent: “Good. Are we on the same page about the dates?”
Family: “Yes, we are.”
Parent: “Are we on the right track with the budget?”
Spouse: “I think so. Can you give me a ballpark figure for the hotel?”
Parent: “I’d estimate around $2,000.”
Spouse: “Okay. Let’s get the ball rolling and start booking.”
Parent: “It’s getting late. Shall we call it a day and continue tomorrow?”
Family: “Yes, good idea.”

Part 6: Common Mistakes to Avoid

Mistake 1: Confusing “Game Plan” and “Take”

❌ Incorrect: “What’s your take on this?” (When asking for a strategy)
✅ Correct: “What’s your game plan?” (For a strategy)

❌ Incorrect: “What’s your game plan on this?” (When asking for an opinion)
✅ Correct: “What’s your take on this?” (For an opinion)

Mistake 2: Confusing “Get the Ball Rolling” and “Call It a Day”

❌ Incorrect: “It’s late. Let’s get the ball rolling.” (For ending work)
✅ Correct: “It’s late. Let’s call it a day.” (Ending work)

❌ Incorrect: “We need to start. Let’s call it a day.” (For starting)
✅ Correct: “We need to start. Let’s get the ball rolling.” (Starting)

Mistake 3: Confusing “On the Same Page” and “On the Right Track”

❌ Incorrect: “I want to make sure we agree. Are we on the right track?”
✅ Correct: “I want to make sure we agree. Are we on the same page?” (Agreement)

❌ Incorrect: “Is our approach correct? Are we on the same page?”
✅ Correct: “Is our approach correct? Are we on the right track?” (Correct approach)

Mistake 4: Confusing “Weigh In” and “Ballpark Figure”

❌ Incorrect: “Can you give me a ballpark figure on the strategy?” (Asking for an estimate)
✅ Correct: “Can you weigh in on the strategy?” (Asking for opinion)

❌ Incorrect: “Can you weigh in on the cost?” (Asking for an estimate)
✅ Correct: “Can you give me a ballpark figure on the cost?” (Asking for estimate)

Part 7: Summary Table

Idiom	Meaning	Used When…
What’s your game plan?	What’s your strategy?	Planning a project
What’s your take on this?	What’s your opinion?	Seeking views
Shall we get the ball rolling?	Shall we start?	Beginning a task
Shall we call it a day?	Shall we end?	Finishing for the day
Are we on the same page?	Do we all agree?	Confirming alignment
Are we on the right track?	Is our approach correct?	Checking progress
Can you weigh in on this?	Can you share your input?	Requesting advice
Can you give me a ballpark figure?	Can you give an estimate?	Estimating costs

Part 8: Memory Tricks

Trick 1: Visualize the Idiom

Game plan = 🏈 A coach’s strategy board
Take = 🗣️ Someone sharing their viewpoint
Get the ball rolling = ⚽ A ball starting to roll
Call it a day = ⏰ A clock showing the end of work
On the same page = 📖 People reading the same book
On the right track = 🚂 A train going the right direction
Weigh in = ⚖️ Someone adding their weight/opinion
Ballpark figure = ⚾ A ballpark with estimated numbers

Trick 2: Group by Function

Planning and Starting:

What’s your game plan?
Shall we get the ball rolling?

Opinions and Input:

What’s your take on this?
Can you weigh in on this?

Alignment and Progress:

Are we on the same page?
Are we on the right track?

Ending and Estimating:

Shall we call it a day?
Can you give me a ballpark figure?

Final Summary

Idiom	Meaning	Example
What’s your game plan?	What’s your strategy?	“What’s your game plan for the project?”
What’s your take on this?	What’s your opinion?	“What’s your take on the new policy?”
Shall we get the ball rolling?	Shall we start?	“Shall we get the ball rolling?”
Shall we call it a day?	Shall we end?	“Shall we call it a day?”
Are we on the same page?	Do we all agree?	“Are we on the same page?”
Are we on the right track?	Is our approach correct?	“Are we on the right track?”
Can you weigh in on this?	Can you share your input?	“Can you weigh in on this?”
Can you give me a ballpark figure?	Can you give an estimate?	“Can you give me a ballpark figure?”

Put Your Skills Into Practice

Now that you’ve mastered these 8 idioms, it’s time to practice!

Your Challenge: Write 8 questions in the comments below—one for each idiom—asking about something in your life (work, school, or personal).

Example:

“What’s your game plan for completing the project on time?”
“What’s your take on the new company policy?”
“Shall we get the ball rolling on the presentation?”
“Shall we call it a day and continue tomorrow?”
“Are we on the same page about the budget?”
“Are we on the right track with our marketing strategy?”
“Can you weigh in on the design decision?”
“Can you give me a ballpark figure for the total cost?”

Want to continue mastering English idioms? Explore our comprehensive courses at AdvancedEnglishLab.com, where we help learners build confidence and fluency.

Which of these 8 idioms was most helpful for you? Share in the comments below—I’d love to hear from you!

Enjoyed this lesson? Don’t forget to share it with fellow English learners!

8 English Idioms Hiding in Questions: Sound Like a Native Speaker