start off strong

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start off strong" is correct and usable in written English.
It is often used when making a suggestion about how to begin a task, project or activity. For example, you could say, "If you want your presentation to be successful, start off strong by introducing yourself and explaining the main points of your speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

16 human-written examples

He can work out this summer, test it out, and next year he can start off strong again and finish strong".

The New York Times - Sports

Despite his eyebrow-raising turnaround this season, it isn't unheard of for middle infielders to start off strong through age 25, struggle for a couple of years and then bounce back.

The New York Times

But Jan Dawson, a telecom analyst at Ovum, says that if a device is still new, a big discount is typically a sign that its sales didn't start off strong and the company is trying to clear out inventory.

The New York Times

Unlike some other shows of this ilk that start off strong and then go nowhere – I'm looking at you, Flash Forward – Persons Unknown is a 13-episode-and-done situation.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

"We make judgments [about other people] in a nanosecond". And once that impression is formed, it's "very, very hard to change it". Simply put, your relationships and interactions will be a lot easier if you're able to immediately start off strong.

Harvard Business Review

While the euro was once viewed as a weakling because of doubts that Spain and Italy would have the discipline to get into fiscal trim, all signs now suggest that the euro will start off strong and may come to rival the dollar as a reserve currency held by central banks around the world.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

44 human-written examples

The blue team starts off strong, then the red team catches up, and, before you know it, they're neck and neck!

Huffington Post

But a bigger problem than the script (which starts off strong in that parking lot scene but slowly peters out) is perhaps the casting.

Huffington Post

Glick starts off strong as the gay Jacob, though his offbeat line readings grow less effective as the show goes on.

Huffington Post

Zack Handlen of The A.V. Club awarded the episode a "B+", writing that it was an "example of an episode that starts off strong, only to fumble when it comes to the follow through".

Wikipedia

"We started off strong, but we couldn't finish". La Cañada delivered a spirited blow to King's prospects in the first game in scoring 10 of the first 15 points in jumping out to a five-point advantage thanks to two kills from senior Kendall Walbrecht (16 kills) and a block and kill from senior Lauren Streeter.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When giving advice, use "start off strong" to emphasize the importance of making a positive first impression or initial effort. For example, "To ace the interview, start off strong with a confident handshake and clear introduction."

Common error

Don't assume that a strong start guarantees continued success. Ensure you sustain the initial effort and momentum throughout the task or project. Starting strong is only the first step; consistent effort is key.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "start off strong" functions primarily as a verbal phrase, offering guidance on how to initiate an action or endeavor. Ludwig examples show its use in sports, business and general advice-giving contexts. It suggests an intentional and energetic beginning.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Academia

20%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

20%

Science

0%

Social Media

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "start off strong" serves as a verbal phrase used for motivational and advisory purposes. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and general suitability across various contexts, especially in News & Media and general advisory scenarios. While its register tends to be neutral to informal, the phrase emphasizes the importance of initiating tasks with vigor and effectiveness. Alternatives like "begin powerfully" or "make a strong start" can be employed to convey similar meanings, ensuring that the commencement of any endeavor is marked by strength and determination.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

make a strong start

A more direct and straightforward alternative, focusing on strength.

begin powerfully

Focuses on the power and impact of the initial action.

commence vigorously

Emphasizes the energetic and active nature of the beginning.

launch effectively

Highlights the efficient and successful initiation of something.

initiate with force

Stresses the intensity and strength applied from the start.

start positively

Emphasizes a good and favorable beginning.

kick off impressively

Emphasizes a notable and attention-grabbing start.

get off to a flying start

Implies a very quick and successful beginning.

begin auspiciously

Highlights a promising and favorable start.

set off dynamically

Focuses on the energetic and vibrant nature of the start.

FAQs

How can I use "start off strong" in a sentence?

You can use "start off strong" to advise someone on how to begin an activity with vigor and impact. For example, "If you want to win the race, you need to "start off strong"."

What does it mean to "start off strong"?

To ""start off strong"" means to begin a task, project, or activity with great effort, energy, and effectiveness, setting a positive tone and trajectory from the outset.

What can I say instead of "start off strong"?

You can use alternatives like "make a strong start", "begin powerfully", or "get off to a flying start" depending on the context.

In what contexts is it appropriate to use "start off strong"?

The phrase ""start off strong"" is appropriate in various contexts, including sports, business, education, and personal development, where a positive and impactful beginning is crucial.