know the ropes

Cultural  

1. To be familiar with the details of an operation: “You won't have to train the new computer operator; she already knows the ropes.”

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know the ropes Idioms  

1. Be informed about the details of a situation or task. For example, Don't worry about Sara's taking over that reporter's job—she already knows the ropes. This expression alludes to sailors learning the rigging so as to handle a sailing vessel's ropes. It was being used figuratively by the late 1800s. The same allusion is present in show someone the ropes, meaning “to familiarize someone with the details,” as in Tom's very experienced—he'll show you the ropes.

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Example Sentences

The advantage the Dudamel Fellows enjoy is that they know the ropes.

From Los Angeles Times

She’s coming in like, “I know the ropes and I’ll try to show you,” but she’s doing it reluctantly.

From Los Angeles Times

“It is a real shame. I know the ropes. My French is good enough.”

From Seattle Times

“Both David and I know the ropes,” she said with a laugh.

From Washington Times

“Nobody is indispensable. But I do think that I am best qualified to take us into the future, protect the Affordable Care Act, to do our infrastructure bill and the rest. Stepping down this path, I know the ropes.”

From Washington Post