Feifei Have we got everything, Neil?
Neil Think so. I’ve got the tickets, most importantly. Would not want to miss this concert!
Feifei Let me see. One, two, three… Neil?
Neil Yes?
Feifei There are only three tickets. You know Dan is coming too, right?
Neil Really? Oh man. We’re one short.
Feifei What to do?
Neil I don’t know.
Feifei Neil, it’s OK. I’ll take one for the team. I’m a bit tired anyway.
Neil Are you sure? I could…
Feifei Don’t worry. I know how much you love this band!
** Neil** Too kind. But before I head off, let’s explain the phrase Feifei used. To take one for the team is to give something up for the benefit of others – usually for your friends or colleagues, or your sports team, for example.
Feifei I decided to let the others go to the concert instead of me. I took one for the team.
Neil And I’m very grateful. Now, listen to these examples.
ExamplesThere wasn’t enough space in the car for all of us, so Johnny took one for the team and walked.
Valentyna injured her foot in the first half of the game. She wanted to continue playing, but we decided that someone else should play in the second half to give us the best chance of winning. Valentyna took one for the team.
Sometimes you have to take one for the team. Last week I spent the day clearing out the kitchen while the rest of the family went to the beach.
NeilYou’re listening to The English We Speak from BBC Learning English. In this programme, we’re looking at the expression ‘take one for the team’. Right, I’d better get going.
Feifei Before you go, Neil, I just want to ask something.
Neil Yes?
Feifei We need someone to do the late shift next week. I was wondering…
Neil Feifei, don’t you worry. I’ll take one for the team.
Feifei I knew you would! Thanks, Neil. Now, go and enjoy the show!
Neil Bye.
FeifeiBye.