THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Do the trick
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To produce the result that is needed or wanted.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- A small lamp should do the trick if the desk feels too dark.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
0 of 1 checked correctly
Can you recall the expression?
Complete the example using the expression from this lesson.
A small lamp should ________ if the desk feels too dark.
Show the answer
Do the trick — To produce the result that is needed or wanted.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Do the trick” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
To produce the result that is needed or wanted.
Compare: A small lamp should do the trick if the desk feels too dark.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
Self-review only. Your sentence is not automatically marked, saved or submitted.
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More ways to understand and use it
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When to use it
Use it informally for a practical solution that works, even if it is simple. It suits everyday conversation.
More examples in context
- Restarting the device did the trick, and the screen worked again.
- This spare folder will do the trick for keeping the forms together.
Usage note
This expression describes effectiveness, not deception or magic. Use does with a singular present-tense subject and did for the past.
A short conversation
A: What can we use to keep the door from closing while we carry the boxes?
B: This doorstop should do the trick.
A: Great. Let us put it in place.
One more practice question
If a solution does the trick, what is true?
A. It fails to have the needed effect.
B. It achieves the desired result.
Check your answer
B. The solution works for the purpose.
Related lessons
Meaning and usage checked against Cambridge Dictionary. Explanations, examples and conversation are original.