idioms
Idioms & Natural Expressions
Fixed expressions and idiomatic language to sound more natural and precise.
30 minC1c1idiomssupply-chains-global-tradesupply chainglobal tradelogisticsbottleneck
Lesson objectives
- Use idiomatic language connected to supply chains & global trade more naturally.
- Distinguish neutral, formal and contemporary expressions.
- Recognise when an expression improves fluency without sounding forced.
Idioms & expressions — Supply Chains & Global Trade
bottleneck effect · formal
formalMeaning:A situation that causes delay in a process or system.
Significado:Efecto cuello de botella / congestión.
Example:The sudden surge in AI chip demand has created a significant bottleneck effect in the global semiconductor supply chain.
to streamline operations · formal
formalMeaning:To make a process more efficient by removing unnecessary steps.
Significado:Optimizar/agilizar las operaciones.
Example:We need to streamline our logistics operations to reduce our carbon footprint and cut lead times.
just-in-case model · neutral
neutralMeaning:A strategy of maintaining higher inventory levels to prevent shortages (a shift from 'just-in-time').
Significado:Modelo de inventario de seguridad / preventivo.
Example:After the recent disruptions, many retailers have shifted from just-in-time to a more resilient just-in-case model.
to bridge the gap · neutral
neutralMeaning:To connect two different things or to reduce the difference between them.
Significado:Cerrar la brecha / acortar la distancia.
Example:The new automated warehouse is designed to bridge the gap between manufacturing speed and shipping capacity.
to be in the loop · informal
formalMeaning:To be informed about or involved in a particular situation or process.
Significado:Estar al tanto / estar en el círculo de información.
Example:Make sure the logistics manager is kept in the loop regarding the new customs regulations.
to hit a snag · informal
formalMeaning:To encounter an unexpected problem or difficulty.
Significado:Encontrarse con un contratiempo / un obstáculo.
Example:The global rollout of the new electric vehicle models hit a snag due to raw material shortages.
to pivot towards · neutral
neutralMeaning:To fundamentally change the direction of a business strategy or supply route.
Significado:Pivotar hacia / cambiar de rumbo hacia.
Example:In response to geopolitical shifts, the company decided to pivot towards more localized sourcing.
de-risking the chain · formal
formalMeaning:The strategic process of diversifying suppliers to reduce vulnerability (contemporary term).
Significado:Mitigar riesgos en la cadena / diversificación de riesgos.
Example:The board is prioritising de-risking the chain by moving production to multiple different regions.
to be tech-ready · neutral
neutralMeaning:To have the infrastructure and digital tools necessary to handle modern automated processes (contemporary term).
Significado:Estar preparado tecnológicamente.
Example:Our legacy systems aren't tech-ready for the integration of real-time IoT tracking.
supply chain fragmentation · formal
formalMeaning:The breaking apart of global supply chains into smaller, disconnected regional parts (contemporary term).
Significado:Fragmentación de la cadena de suministro.
Example:Experts are warning that supply chain fragmentation could lead to higher consumer prices in the coming years.