off to a fast start

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "off to a fast start" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone or something that begins an activity or process with great speed or enthusiasm. Example: "The team was off to a fast start in the first quarter, scoring three goals within the first ten minutes."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Bradley's putter helped him get off to a fast start.

The New York Times

Every team wants to get off to a fast start.

The New York Times - Sports

Lyth got Yorkshire off to a fast start.

The Guardian - Sport

Mr. DeMartini got off to a fast start.

The New York Times

Mr. O'Neal is off to a fast start.

The New York Times

Mr. Seliger got off to a fast start.

The New York Times - Arts

The story gets off to a fast start.

The New York Times - Books

Hopefully, we can get off to a fast start.

The New York Times - Sports

"So we're off to a fast start," Mr. Kerry said.

The New York Times

And he is off to a fast start.

The New York Times

The Fire got off to a fast start.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "off to a fast start" to highlight an energetic and successful beginning. It's especially effective when describing initiatives, projects, or performances that show early promise.

Common error

Avoid using "off to a fast start" when the situation requires a more formal or nuanced description. In contexts demanding precision or a less enthusiastic tone, consider alternatives like "began promisingly" or "initiated effectively".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "off to a fast start" functions as an idiomatic expression, typically acting as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It describes how something begins, emphasizing the speed and success of the commencement. As noted by Ludwig AI, this is a commonly used and understood phrase.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Sports

25%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Wiki

5%

Science

5%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "off to a fast start" is a common and grammatically sound idiomatic expression used to describe something that begins quickly and successfully. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. Predominantly found in News & Media and Sports contexts, it serves to communicate enthusiasm and optimism about initial progress. While versatile, it's best to avoid using it in highly formal settings where a more measured tone is preferred. Consider alternatives like "starting strong" or "beginning auspiciously" for such situations.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

starting strong

A more concise and direct way of saying something began well.

opening with great speed

Highlights the speed aspect of the initial phase.

making a flying start

Employs a different metaphor (flying) to depict a rapid commencement.

commencing at full throttle

Suggests starting with maximum effort and intensity.

beginning auspiciously

Uses more formal vocabulary to convey a similar sense of a promising beginning.

establishing an early lead

Specifically refers to establishing a leading position early on.

gaining early momentum

Focuses on the aspect of building momentum right from the beginning.

gaining traction quickly

Focuses on gaining traction or progress rapidly from the outset.

initiating with enthusiasm

Emphasizes the enthusiastic nature of the start.

getting off on the right foot

Implies a positive and successful beginning, focusing on correctness.

FAQs

How can I use "off to a fast start" in a sentence?

You can use "off to a fast start" to describe a person, team, project, or initiative that begins with great speed and success. For example, "The project was "starting strong" and showed great promise from the outset".

What are some alternatives to "off to a fast start"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "starting strong", "making a flying start", or "beginning auspiciously".

Is it ever wrong to use the phrase "off to a fast start"?

While generally correct, using "off to a fast start" might be inappropriate in formal or serious contexts where a more neutral or precise tone is required. Choose a more measured phrase like "initiated effectively" in such cases.

What does "off to a fast start" imply about the subsequent events?

"Off to a fast start" typically implies that the initial momentum is strong and suggests a likelihood of continued success, although it doesn't guarantee it. It sets an expectation of positive progress in the near future.