Get the Ball Rolling
Meaning
To initiate an activity or process, especially one that requires an initial push to overcome inertia.
Origin
The phrase 'get the ball rolling' finds its roots in the simple, universal act of starting a game or activity by propelling a ball forward. Whether it was a game of skittles, billiards, or an early form of cricket, the initial push or roll of the ball represented the decisive first step, overcoming inertia and setting the entire event in motion. This literal action, common in recreational sports throughout the 19th century, seamlessly transitioned into a powerful metaphor for initiating any complex process or project, signifying the crucial first move that ensures continued progress.
Examples
- Let's get the ball rolling on this new project by scheduling an initial planning meeting for tomorrow.
- The team leader needed to get the ball rolling quickly to meet the tight deadline for the product launch.