off and running
Started and progressing
Off and running describes something that has begun and is progressing with momentum.
The phrase comes from horse racing—the moment horses leave the starting gate.
It applies to projects, campaigns, relationships, or any endeavor that has successfully launched: Once we secured funding, we were off and running.
The emphasis is on a strong, energetic start rather than a tentative beginning.
- hot to trotExtremely eager, impatient
- raring to goExtremely keen to begin
- quick off the markPrompt to act initially
- startTo set going
- off to the racesStarted and gaining momentum
full speed ahead · gaining steam · momentum · debut · initiation · breakthrough · outset · commencement · inception · launch · kickoff · acceleration · advancement · propulsion · in full swing · underway · pace · trajectory
off and runningstalled
Stopped unexpectedly
stuck · at a standstill · going nowhere · dead in the water · bogged down
off and runningdead on arrival
Lifeless upon reaching destination
stillborn · nonstarter · DOA · crashed and burned · fell flat
off and runningdead on arrival
Lifeless upon reaching destination
grounded · out of commission · shut down · offline · inoperative