Benefit & Merit: English Vocabulary List

a personal investment or stake in a particular outcome, which motivates a person to be committed to achieving success or avoiding failure

"I have skin in the game."

"The manager has skin in the game because she invested her own money in the project so she will work hard."

to have an interest in the outcome of a particular situation

"He has no dog in this fight."

"The lawyer refused to take the case because his brother worked for the opposing company and he had a dog in the fight."

to offer a beneficial or valuable contribution or resource in a collaborative setting to achieve a common goal

"Bring skills to table."

"Each member of the team was asked to bring their unique expertise and innovative ideas to the table."

a share of money or benefits that are available to one

"Everyone wants a piece of the pie."

"The workers demanded a fair share of the pie after the company announced record breaking profits this year."

to take advantage of a favorable opportunity or circumstance while it is available, rather than waiting or procrastinating

"Make hay while the sun shines."

"The weather is beautiful so let us make hay while the sun shines and finish painting the house today."

material or information that can be used or processed, especially to generate further discussion, ideas, or productivity

"Every problem is grist for the mill."

"The criticism from her rivals was just grist for the mill because it motivated her to work even harder."

to have a significant impact or influence

"Kindness goes a long way."

"A simple apology can go a long way toward resolving conflicts and rebuilding trust between two people."

to change a situation in the favor of a person, group, etc.

"She tipped the balance today."

"The new evidence helped tip the balance of the trial in favor of the defense team."

to be advantageous or beneficial to someone or something in the long run

"Your patience will stand you in good stead."

"His ability to speak three languages will stand him in good stead when he applies for jobs at international companies."

to have favorable conditions or circumstances that support or propel one's progress or success

"He has the wind at his back now."

"With strong public support, the candidate had the wind at her back as she launched her campaign."