flying start

American  

noun

1. a start, as in sailboat racing, in which the entrants begin moving before reaching the starting line.

2. a start or beginning of anything, characterized by the participant's vigor and enthusiasm and sometimes by a certain advantage over competitors.

   She's off to a flying start in her new job.

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flying start British  

noun

1. Also called (informal): flyer.  (in sprinting) a start by a competitor anticipating the starting signal

2. a start to a race or time trial in which the competitor is already travelling at speed as he passes the starting line

3. any promising beginning

4. an initial advantage over others

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flying start Idioms  

1. see under get off the ground.

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Etymology

Origin of flying start

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

flying start

A nicely worked try by Cadan Murley in the opening minute gave England a flying start, but they were soon reeled in once France's quicksilver handling game got up to speed.

From BBC ● Jun. 19, 2026

The former United midfielder is only in charge until the end of the season, but his flying start has seen him tipped to win the job on a permanent basis.

From Barron's ● Feb. 10, 2026

After Canada won the toss and elected to field, Quinton de Kock and captain Aiden Markram got South Africa off to a flying start, putting on an opening stand of 70 in 6.5 overs.

From Barron's ● Feb. 9, 2026

The seven-time champion made a flying start, up to 13th on the first lap and continued to move forwards.

From BBC ● Nov. 23, 2025

He backed up so he could get a flying start and then we whooped across the bridge, our wheels clattering across the loose boards, space gaping below.

From "Homesick" by Jean Fritz