get things started

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get things started" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when you want to start doing something. For example: "Let's get things started and make a plan for the project."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

That might get things started.

The New York Times - Magazine

"This at least will get things started".

The Guardian

That might work — at least to get things started.

The New York Times

"There is enough planned to get things started," she said.

The New York Times

Just post yours below to get things started.

The Guardian

We'll get things started with this suggestion from an editor: "Remake the Catskills?

The New York Times

Jena Friedman will get things started, and Chris Lamberth will host.

The New York Times - Arts

To get things started, though, I get a big punch bowl ready.

The New York Times

But I do think 'we' helped get things started in terms of the music media.

The Guardian - Tech

The Netscape white paper in August 1996 helped get things started.

The New York Times

It's online from today until Friday, so post your questions below to get things started.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get things started" to clearly indicate the beginning of a process, project, or activity, setting a positive and proactive tone.

Common error

Avoid using passive constructions that obscure who is initiating the action. Instead of "Things were gotten started", use the active voice: "We will get things started" to maintain clarity and directness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get things started" functions as an idiomatic expression used to denote the initiation or commencement of an activity, process, or project. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is grammatically correct and usable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

12%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

HuffPost

2%

Vice

2%

TechCrunch

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "get things started" is a versatile phrase used to indicate the beginning of an activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is considered grammatically correct and suitable for both formal and informal contexts. Its frequency across diverse sources, especially in News & Media, underscores its common usage. When writing, ensure clarity by using the active voice and considering alternatives like ""kick things off"" or ""initiate action"" to best fit the situation. "Get things started" serves as a great way to set a proactive tone in almost any setting.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

kick things off

Emphasizes initiating an event or activity, often with enthusiasm or energy.

begin the process

Highlights the commencement of a series of actions or a procedure.

initiate action

Focuses on taking the first step to start something, usually in a formal context.

set in motion

Suggests starting a process that will continue on its own.

start the ball rolling

Implies initiating an activity to encourage further progress.

commence operations

Often used in business or formal settings to indicate the beginning of activities.

launch the project

Focuses on formally introducing or beginning a specific project or endeavor.

activate the plan

Highlights putting a prepared plan into action.

set the wheels in motion

Emphasizes initiating a series of actions that lead to a specific outcome.

get underway

Suggests the beginning of a journey, project, or activity.

FAQs

How can I use "get things started" in a sentence?

You can use "get things started" to indicate the commencement of an activity. For example, "Let's "get things started" by outlining the project scope".

What are some alternatives to "get things started"?

Alternatives include "kick things off", "begin the process", or "initiate action", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "getting things started"?

Yes, "getting things started" is a correct and usable form. It often functions as a gerund or present participle. For example, "Getting things started early is crucial for success".

What's the difference between "get things started" and "start things"?

"Get things started" implies initiating a process, while "start things" can be more general. Although similar, ""get things started"" often carries a slightly more proactive or organized connotation than the more generic "start things".