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get the ball rolling
/ɡɛt ðə bɔːl ˈroʊlɪŋ/◆idiom
start a process or activity
The manager decided to get the ball rolling on the new project.
The manager started the new project.
informal
To initiate or start a process, project, or activity, especially after a period of inactivity or delay.
Let's get the ball rolling on the meeting by discussing the agenda.
Let's start the meeting by discussing the agenda.
The team needs to get the ball rolling if they want to finish the project on time.
The team needs to start working if they want to finish the project on time.
This idiom is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts to emphasize the beginning of an action or process.
Related Phrases
Pro Tip
Usage Tip
Use this idiom when you want to emphasize the beginning of an action or process, especially after a delay.
Gold Rule
Correct Usage
Ensure the context is about starting something, not just any action.
Word Origin
The phrase originates from ball games, where rolling the ball starts the game. It was first recorded in the early 20th century.
Usage Notes
This idiom is widely used in business, sports, and everyday conversations to indicate the start of an activity.
Word Breakdown
get
to obtain or achieve
verbthe ball
a spherical object used in games
noun phraserolling
moving in a circular motion
verbEnglish Dictionary