a running start
Meaning(s)
1. begin something with an advantage over other people
Popularity
Medium
Professional
Medium
Social
How to Memorize
get/have/be given a running start
Analysis
If someone or something has a 'running start' they begin with an advantage. You might hear this used when talking about social issues: "Children who eat breakfast each day have a running start when it comes to paying attention in the classroom." It can be used in sport: "Number 14 is off to a running start." Or it can be used to talk about professional advantages: "This candidate has the right qualifications for the role, so in my books, he is off to a running start for the position."
Social Examples (Advance)
- We were given a running start on the project because we were finished with our other assignments.
- Right away, the team was off to a running start because of their combined knowledge on the chosen topic.
Professional Examples (Basic)
- The first-quarter figures are in, and things are looking good. We're off to a running start with this product.
- Our onboarding process is designed to get new employees off to running start as quickly as possible.