got the ball rolling
Initiated the process
Got the ball rolling means initiated action or set something in motion.
The image is of starting a ball moving so momentum can take over.
Used for beginning projects, conversations, or processes: Once she made the first call, that got the ball rolling.
The related phrase keep the ball rolling means to maintain momentum already established.
- kickstartedBegan with force
- propelledCaused to move forward
- ledGuided or commanded
- set the wheels in motionBegin an ongoing process
- launchedSet in motion
took the lead · broke the ice · triggered · sparked · initiated · hit the ground running · advanced · commenced · started · accelerated · paved the way · drove · pushed forward · inspired · activated · opened · motivated · championed
got the ball rollingput the brakes on
To slow or stop
shut down · killed · nipped in the bud · put an end to · stalled
got the ball rollingstalled
Stopped unexpectedly
dragged one's feet · hesitated · sat on one's hands · procrastinated · dithered
got the ball rollingput the brakes on
To slow or stop
stopped dead · put a stop to · killed it · nipped in the bud · pulled the plug
getting, getter, balled, balling, baller, rolled, rolling, roller, rollers