kick it off

USAGE SUMMARY

"kick it off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to mean to start something. For example: "Let's kick off the meeting by discussing the agenda."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

She asked me to kick it off.

The Guardian - Opinion

"A ballpoint pen would kick it off," Mr. Morrison said.

The New York Times

"Well, I'll kick it off," Mr. Fuld finally said.

The New York Times

"I don't want you to kick it off while you're sleeping".

The New Yorker

"If I was interested in hiring somebody," DiVincenzo said, "I would kick it off him".

The New Yorker

In reference to Saturday's game, he added: "That's why you kick it off and play.

The New York Times - Sports

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

6 human-written examples

Me and him just kicked it off.

The New York Times

Actually, Tennessee kicked it off.

The New York Times - Sports

It's hard to say what kicks it off.

The Guardian - Books

Jennifer Baumgardner and Amy Richards, now 40, kicked it off with Manifesta in 2000.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Ray kicked it off," Allen said, "and we all just followed".

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "kick it off" when you want to convey an informal, energetic start to an event, meeting, or project.

Common error

Avoid using "kick it off" in highly formal or academic writing; opt for more professional alternatives like "begin" or "initiate".

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "kick it off" is that of a phrasal verb. It is used to initiate an event, discussion, or activity. Ludwig AI affirms its correct usage as a way to begin something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

88%

Wiki

3%

Science

3%

Less common in

Formal & Business

2%

Reference

1%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "kick it off" is a very common and correct phrasal verb used to describe the start of something. According to Ludwig AI, it is deemed grammatically sound and usable in written English. While it's mostly found in News & Media, it can be used in other types of communication. Remember, although commonly accepted, is best to reserve "kick it off" for casual, and avoid using it in more formal settings where alternatives like "begin" or "initiate" would be more appropriate.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

start

This alternative is a basic synonym focusing on the commencement of an activity.

get going

This alternative suggests a casual start, focusing on initiating action.

begin

This alternative is a more formal and concise way to express starting something.

launch

This alternative is suited when something is being introduced or released publicly.

initiate

This alternative implies a more formal and structured beginning.

get underway

This alternative emphasizes the process of starting and progressing.

commence

This alternative is a more formal way of saying start or begin, often used in official contexts.

set in motion

This alternative emphasizes the act of starting a process or chain of events.

spark

This alternative implies initiating something that quickly gains momentum.

trigger

This alternative is used to imply the start of an event as a result of a specific cause.

FAQs

What does "kick it off" mean?

The phrase "kick it off" means to start something, often with enthusiasm or in an informal setting. It's similar to saying "begin" or "start".

How can I use "kick it off" in a sentence?

You might say, "Let's "kick it off" by reviewing the agenda" or "The conference will "kick it off" with a keynote speaker".

What can I say instead of "kick it off"?

You can use alternatives like "begin", "start", or "commence" depending on the formality of the situation.

Is it appropriate to use "kick it off" in a business presentation?

It depends on the audience and the tone of your presentation. In a relaxed and informal setting, "kick it off" is fine. For a more formal presentation, consider using "initiate" or "commence".