SpeakUp

Changes in the team B1

Someone's leaving, someone new's coming in, and you're sorting out who picks up what.

Handing things over

hand over — give control or possessionA: Can you hand over the remote?
B: Sure, here you go.

take over — replace someone in a roleA: Who's teaching the class now?
B: Mr. Lee took over from Mrs. Carter last week.

take on — accept responsibilityA: Are you sure you want to take on another class this semester?
B: Yeah, I think I can handle it.

Stepping in and stepping back

fill in B2 — substitute for someoneA: Who's teaching our class this week?
B: Mr. Lee is filling in for Ms. Carter while she's away.

step down B2 — resign from a positionA: Did you hear Mr. Lee is stepping down as principal?
B: Really? I wonder who will replace him.

stand by — be ready to helpA: Are you coming with us now?
B: No, I'll stand by and wait for your call if you need help.

Bringing people on

take on B2 — hire someoneA: Is your café busy enough to take on more staff?
B: Yes, we’re looking for someone to help at weekends.

bring in C1 — involve for expertiseA: We're struggling with the new software rollout.
B: Maybe we should bring in an IT specialist to guide the team.

Going furtherB2 · once the core feels easy

take over B2 — take controlA: Who's going to take over when the boss retires?
B: I heard Mark is next in line.

cut out for B2 — to have the right qualities for somethingA: How's your new job at the hospital?
B: Honestly, I don't think I'm cut out for night shifts. It's exhausting!

For nuanceC1 · for nuance

cut out C1 — be suited forA: I thought you wanted to be a surgeon?
B: I did, but after my first year in med school, I knew I wasn't cut out for it.

Passing it on

Kate: So once Dave's gone, who's going to take over the accounts?

Phil: I think Sara's going to take on the lot. He'll hand over everything next week.

Kate: Big ask. Can someone stand by to help her settle in?

Phil: I'll fill in wherever she needs a hand.

Moving on

Ravi: Did you hear the manager's going to step down at the end of the month?

Emma: No! Are they bringing in someone from outside to replace her?

Ravi: Sounds like it. They want someone to really take over and shake things up.

Emma: Big shoes to fill. Everyone really rated her.

← More work & careers situations

Practice speaking with instant AI feedback →