hit the ground running

Idioms  

1. Seize an opportunity; begin at full speed. For example, As soon as the front office gave its approval for the new department, we hit the ground running. The origin of this term is disputed. It may come from troops dropped into a combat zone, from stowaways jumping off a freight train as it nears the station, or from Pony Express riders avoiding delay when they changed mounts.

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Example Sentences

Farrell said Ireland know they have "to hit the ground running" in Paris on 5 February.

From BBC

Though in the final months of his contract at Selhurst Park, a £20m fee for an international player with proven Premier League experience, and one which can hit the ground running immediately, can be classed as highly satisfactory business.

From BBC

If the 22-year-old Spaniard does hit the ground running – as he starts a new era without long-time coach Juan Carlos Ferrero – he will become the youngest man to complete the career Grand Slam.

From BBC

Hired from Strasbourg to replace Enzo Maresca after the Italian parted company with the Blues last week, Rosenior fulfilled his wish to "hit the ground running" by ending their five-match winless run.

From Barron's

The only major oil company operating there is Chevron, and new entrants lack the relationships, staff and logistical capabilities to hit the ground running.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• begin
• inaugurate
• initiate
• launch
• take up