The Name Of The Game – Idiom of the Day for IELTS Speaking

When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, using idiomatic expressions naturally and correctly can boost your score, especially in the Lexical Resource criterion. Today’s idiom, “The Name of the Game,” is useful when describing the most important factor for success in an activity, plan, or goal.

Meaning of The Name of the Game

Definition: To say something is “the name of the game” means it is the key factor or the most important aspect needed to succeed in a situation, task, or activity.

Origin of the Idiom The Name of the Game

This phrase originates from sports and games, where knowing the rules and objectives was considered essential. Over time, it evolved into a metaphor for emphasizing the central element that determines success in any area of life, such as business, education, or personal goals.

Usage of The Name of the Game in Context

Here are some example sentences showing how the idiom is used in the IELTS Speaking: 

• “Precision is the name of the game if you want to win this competition.”
• “In business, patience is the name of the game for long-term success.”
• “For economic growth, a free market is the name of the game.”

Pro tip: Use this idiom naturally when talking about future plans, success strategies, or qualities needed for achievement.

When to Use the Idiom The Name of the Game

You can use this idiom in IELTS Speaking Part 1, Part 2, or IELTS Speaking Part 3 when:

• Talking about career goals or study plans.
• Describing qualities needed for success in a competition or task.
• Discussing strategies for achieving long-term success.

Idiom Scenarios

Scenario 1
Sam: What’s the most important thing in preparing for IELTS?
Asha: Practice is the name of the game if you want to get a high band score.

Scenario 2
Mia: What’s the key to running a successful business?
Arjun: Customer service is the name of the game for every successful company.

Sample Answer Using the Idiom The Name of the Game

IELTS Speaking Part 2 – Describe a future plan you are trying to follow.

Sample Answer:
“One important plan I have for the future is to pursue a master’s degree abroad. I made this plan about two years ago, and I’ve been preparing by studying for the IELTS and saving money. To follow this plan successfully, discipline and time management are the name of the game. Without these, it would be impossible to balance my studies, work, and preparation. This plan matters to me because it will improve my career prospects and allow me to gain international exposure.”

IELTS Vocabulary Tip for The Name of the Game

Using idioms like the name of the game in IELTS Speaking makes your answers sound fluent, confident, and advanced. It’s especially powerful when describing key factors in success, strategies, or important life goals.

Exercise: The Name of the Game

Multiple-Choice Question
Q1: “Good customer service is __________________ for successful companies.”

a) the name of the game
b) are two of a kind
c) won hands down
d) have egg on their face

Correct Answer: a) the name of the game

Fill-in-the-Blank
Q2: “In exam preparation, regular practice is __________________.”

a) the name of the game
b) a tough nut to crack
c) out of the blue
d) a blessing in disguise

Correct Answer: a) the name of the game

To sum up, the name of the game is a highly useful idiom for IELTS Speaking when discussing future plans, success strategies, or the most important factor in achieving goals. Using it naturally will help you impress the examiner and score higher in the Lexical Resource criterion. If you’re aiming for a higher band score, make sure to practice idioms in context and check out the IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+ to further enhance your vocabulary and overall test performance.

Also Check: 

• 21+ Tips On How to Improve Your IELTS Writing Band Score
• IELTS Exam Preparation Tips for Band Score of 8+
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
• 10 Useful IELTS Speaking Tips to Impress the Examiner
• Useful Idioms for IELTS Speaking to Score Band 8.0+