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

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

Nicola Davies, the Children's Laureate for Wales, said reading to very young children gave them a "flying start".

From BBC

Airlines are off to a flying start in the new year.

From Barron's

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

From BBC

It was chanceless, and though England were guilty of bowling too wide in the powerplay to allow her a flying start, Wolvaardt never faltered, even when the bowlers improved and tightened their grip.

From BBC