getting to first base
Making preliminary contact
Getting to first base means achieving an initial level of success or progress, from the baseball term for reaching the first of four bases needed to score.
In dating, it's a euphemism for kissing or light physical intimacy—the first step in a progression of sexual activity: I couldn't even get to first base with her.
More broadly, it applies to any endeavor where initial progress matters: We haven't gotten to first base with the negotiations.
- baseballBat-and-ball team sport
- datingPursuing romantic connections
- approachWay of handling something
- playing the fieldDating without commitment
- kissingLip-to-lip contact
advance · cuddling · success · petting · conversation · holding hands · slow dance · stolen kiss · courtship · hugging · attraction · introduction · groundwork · progress · inning · romance · love life · intimacy
getting to first basestriking out
Eliminating by crossing through
going all the way · scoring · home run · getting lucky · crashing and burning