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Idiom

get the ball rolling

idiom (verb phrase) B2
/ɡɛt ðə bɔl ˈroʊlɪŋ/

Meanings

idiom (verb phrase)

To start an activity, project, or process and make it begin moving forward.

Visual cue for get the ball rolling — meaning 1

Definition

To get the ball rolling means to start an activity or process so it can continue and develop.

To get the ball rolling is an idiom meaning to begin something and create momentum. It is often used when starting a meeting, project, discussion, or plan. After you get things started, other people can join in and progress becomes easier.

Examples

  • Let’s get the ball rolling with quick introductions.
  • I’ll send the first email to get the ball rolling.
  • We need a small donation to get the ball rolling on the fundraiser.
  • To get the ball rolling, she shared a few ideas for the design.
  • The manager called a short meeting to get the ball rolling.