IDIOMS
World of sports
IN ENGLISH, THE BUSINESS WORLD DRAWS SIGNIFICANT INSPIRATION FROM THE WORLD OF SPORTS, WHICH IS REFLECTED IN MANY COMMONLY USED EXPRESSIONS. WE HAVE COMPILED A LIST OF OVER 130 SUCH EXPRESSIONS, COMPLETE WITH EXPLANATIONS AND EXAMPLES.
GET OFF THE HOOK.
This expression is commonly used in professional settings to indicate that a person or company has managed to avoid a responsibility, escape a negative consequence, or get out of an obligation.
The expression originates from fishing. When a fish manages to free itself from the hook, it is said to have "gotten off the hook" - it has escaped an unfortunate fate. The phrase was later adopted in English to describe any situation where someone gets out of trouble.
Examples of usage in a professional context:
Because the building was sold to a company that intended to occupy the premises, they got off the hook for the remainder of their lease.
By showing that the renovations were carried out by a licensed professional with liability insurance, she got off the hook for the damages caused.
He accepted a new position abroad, so we got off the hook for having to terminate his contract.
