get the ball rolling
Meaning(s)
1. set a process in motion
Popularity
High
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
I really need to get the ball rolling on that
Analysis
To 'get the ball rolling' is an expression meaning 'to begin' or 'to start'. It is an idiomatic expression used in social and professional contexts. Similar expressions include 'get the party started' and 'break the ice'.
Social Examples (Advance)
- My lease is nearly up on the house I'm renting at the moment and I still haven't found a new place to live. I really need to get the ball rolling before it's too late!
- Who would like to speak first and get the ball rolling?
Professional Examples (Advance)
- At the meeting, I asked my staff to toss out some ideas for the new advertising campaign. Matt got the ball rolling with his idea, and then everyone else pitched in.
- Sarah won't need any help getting the ball rolling on the new project; she is always thinking ahead and is incredibly driven.