a flying start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a flying start" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to describe a strong or successful beginning to an activity or endeavor. Example: "With the new marketing strategy in place, the company was off to a flying start this quarter."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

He already has a flying start.

The New York Times

That looks like a flying start.

The Guardian

The Chiefs got off to a flying start.

Independent

The store got off to a flying start.

The New York Times - Tech

Then they allowed the Dutchmen a flying start.

The Guardian - Sport

Want to get those resolutions off to a flying start?

The Guardian

Cards out to a flying start at Fenway.

The Guardian - Sport

Durham were given a flying start by two dropped catches.

The Guardian - Sport

But it is Stevens who can get his men off to a flying start.

Independent

Around two dozen new competitors for private customers' business have got off to a flying start.

The Economist

Ajay Leitch-Smith had given the Shrews a flying start with a first-minute opener.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a flying start" to emphasize an immediate and noticeable success at the beginning of an endeavor, project, or period. This idiom effectively conveys momentum and positive initial progress.

Common error

Avoid using "a flying start" when the situation requires a more nuanced description of initial progress. If the beginning is merely adequate or shows potential without immediate success, choose a more appropriate phrase like "a promising start".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a flying start" functions as a noun phrase that typically acts as a complement or object in a sentence. As Ludwig AI confirms, it describes something that is immediately successful. Ludwig examples demonstrate its use in various contexts, indicating a strong and positive beginning.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a flying start" is a frequently used phrase to describe an immediately successful beginning, confirmed by Ludwig AI. Predominantly found in News & Media, the phrase maintains a neutral register suitable for various contexts. It’s important to consider subtle differences between alternatives like "a strong beginning" or "a promising start" to ensure the most accurate conveyance of intended meaning. To prevent potential misuse, focus on using the phrase exclusively to describe situations where the beginning is notably positive and successful.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a strong beginning

A more general phrase that emphasizes the positive nature of the initial phase.

a promising start

Highlights the potential for future success based on the initial progress.

a rapid start

Highlights the speed and quickness of the initial progress.

a successful launch

Implies a deliberate and well-executed beginning, particularly for projects or initiatives.

an auspicious beginning

Emphasizes the favorable or promising nature of the start, suggesting good fortune.

a running start

Suggests momentum and preparation leading to the start, implying an advantage.

an impressive kickoff

Similar to 'launch', but often used in less formal contexts.

a roaring start

Emphasizes the energy and enthusiasm of the beginning, suggesting a high level of activity.

a head start

Focuses on gaining an early advantage over others, often in a competitive context.

a blazing start

Similar to a 'roaring start' but even more emphatic and suggesting immediate, noticeable success.

FAQs

How can I use "a flying start" in a sentence?

You can use "a flying start" to describe a successful beginning. For example, "The new product launch gave the company "a flying start" to the quarter."

What can I say instead of "a flying start"?

You can use alternatives like "a strong beginning", "a promising start", or "an auspicious beginning" depending on the context.

Is "a flying start" formal or informal?

"A flying start" is generally considered to be neutral in tone and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal settings might benefit from alternatives like "an auspicious beginning".

What's the difference between "a flying start" and "a running start"?

"A flying start" emphasizes the immediate success of the beginning, while "a running start" suggests that there was momentum or preparation leading up to that successful beginning.