Jenny had just graduated from university. She was both excited and nervous about her first job interview.
The morning of the interview, her mom said, “Break a leg! You’ll do great.”
Jenny smiled but was anxious. She arrived early and tried to get a foot in the door by chatting politely with the receptionist.
When the interview started, the manager asked some tough questions. Jenny almost panicked but reminded herself to keep her chin up.
At one point, she didn’t know the answer to a question. Instead of guessing, she said, “I’ll be honest—I’m still learning, but I’m a fast learner.” The manager smiled. Jenny knew sometimes you had to face the music.
After the interview, Jenny felt relieved. “Even if I don’t get the job, I’m glad I gave it my best shot,” she thought.
A week later, she got a call—she got the job!
Idioms Used in the Story
1. Break a leg
Meaning: Good luck (often said before a performance or interview).
Examples:
You’ll do great—break a leg!
Break a leg in your audition tomorrow!
2. Get a foot in the door
Meaning: To take the first step toward a goal, usually in a job or career.
Examples:
This internship will help me get a foot in the door.
I need to get a foot in the door in this industry.
3. Keep your chin up
Meaning: Stay positive and confident during a difficult time.
Examples:
Keep your chin up—you’re doing fine.
It’s been a tough week, but keep your chin up.
4. Face the music
Meaning: Accept the consequences of your actions.
Examples:
He forgot the deadline and had to face the music.
If you lie, you’ll have to face the music.
5. Give it your best shot
Meaning: Try as hard as possible.
Examples:
Just give it your best shot and see what happens.
I gave it my best shot, but I didn’t win.
