hit the ground running

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.

Example Sentences

"For us it's about trying to hit the ground running and try to get into the mode of Test cricket as quick as we can," he said.

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Smith shapes as a pivotal player for Australia, and has hit the ground running after a six-week break where he did not pick up a bat.

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People continually mention transition and bedding in, but top, top players should hit the ground running - likewise managers.

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"But for me, as soon as it ended I thought, 'right, go back to my club, smash it, do what you can do and hit the ground running'."

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Exeter's Feyi-Waboso, 22, has struggled with injury and missed the Tests against the Pumas through suspension, but with seven Prem tries has hit the ground running this season.

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Related Words

• begin 
• inaugurate 
• initiate 
• launch 
• take up