start the ball rolling

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "start the ball rolling" is correct and can be used in written English.
This phrase typically means to initiate an activity or process. For example: "I suggested we start the ball rolling on the project so that we can meet the deadline."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"This could start the ball rolling".

The New York Times

The object is to start the ball rolling.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Once you start the ball rolling, the O.E.C.D. could raise it to 40 agreements.

The New York Times

HH: For now, at least, we are relying on social media to start the ball rolling.

Independent

To start the ball rolling over here, I give you my five confessions: 1.

The Guardian - Books

If some leading firms take the initiative, it would start the ball rolling.

The Guardian - Opinion

You'll have ideas of your own but I'll start the ball rolling with Fantastic Mr Rat and Stuart (Quite) Little.

Independent

(To start the ball rolling, I'll offer black pepper Boursin – an inspired topping idea from my friend Sharon).

The Guardian - Lifestyle

I'll start the ball rolling with "auto-satirical cardboard deathstar", but expect other countries to swiftly come out on top.

The Guardian - Opinion

You could start the ball rolling by signing a petition to get a garden in every school.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Could they come into the office tomorrow, say this is what I feel and start the ball rolling?

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "start the ball rolling" when you want to convey the idea of initiating something, especially when the process is expected to continue and develop after the initial action.

Common error

While "start the ball rolling" is widely accepted, avoid overusing it in highly formal documents such as academic papers or legal briefs. More formal alternatives like "initiate the process" or "commence proceedings" may be more appropriate in these settings.

Linguistic Context

The idiomatic phrase "start the ball rolling" functions as a verbal phrase indicating the initiation of an action or process. Ludwig examples show its use in various contexts, suggesting its versatility in expressing the commencement of activities.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

76%

Formal & Business

14%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "start the ball rolling" is a common idiom used to describe the act of initiating an activity or process. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread use. Predominantly found in News & Media, its register is generally neutral, making it versatile for various writing styles, though less suitable for highly formal contexts. Consider alternatives like "kick things off" or "initiate the process" depending on the context. Remember to use it to signal the beginning of something that is expected to continue and gain momentum.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

get the ball moving

This is similar to the main query but places more stress on the movement rather than the initial start.

kick things off

This alternative is more informal and emphasizes a beginning or launch.

set the wheels in motion

This alternative emphasizes the preparatory steps taken to begin a process.

get underway

This alternative is a more concise and direct way of saying something is beginning.

initiate the process

This alternative is more formal and direct, focusing on the start of a procedure.

commence proceedings

This alternative is formal and often used in legal or official contexts.

set about

This alternative focuses on the action of beginning a task or activity.

get cracking

This alternative is informal and suggests starting something with enthusiasm.

launch the initiative

This alternative emphasizes the introduction of a new plan or project.

get the show on the road

This alternative is informal and suggests starting an event or journey.

FAQs

How can I use "start the ball rolling" in a sentence?

You can use "start the ball rolling" to describe the beginning of a process or activity. For example, "I'll "start the ball rolling" by sending out the initial emails".

What are some alternatives to "start the ball rolling"?

Alternatives include "kick things off", "set the wheels in motion", or "initiate the process".

Is "start the ball rolling" appropriate for formal writing?

While "start the ball rolling" is widely understood, it's generally considered informal. For formal writing, consider alternatives like "initiate the process" or "commence proceedings".

What does it mean to "start the ball rolling"?

To "start the ball rolling" means to begin an activity or process, often with the implication that further actions will follow. It suggests initiating something that will gain momentum.