Which of these means you would like to get something started?

I've had a look at our numbers for this quarter and I think we should cut some corners.

I've had a look at our numbers for this quarter and I think we should go out on a limb.

I've had a look at our numbers for this quarter and I think we should get the ball rolling.

Which of these means you quit or accept a failure?

After working for that company for 10 years and not receiving a promotion, it was time to throw in the towel.

After working for that company for 10 years and not receiving a promotion, it was time to cut to the chase.

After working for that company for 10 years and not receiving a promotion, it was time to call the shots.

Which one means something is unlikely to happen.

It's a big gap, but I might be able to take some time off at the end of the month.

It's a long shot, but I might be able to take some time off at the end of the month.

It's a gray area, but I might be able to take some time off at the end of the month.

Which of these means that you don't follow the rules or expectations?

In my job you can't always go by the book.

In my job you can't always read the fine print.

Which of these means the most important thing?

The long haul is that we can't afford to lose this client.

The big gift is that we can't afford to lose this client.

The bottom line is that we can't afford to lose this client.