start off on the wrong foot
Begin with missteps
To start off on the wrong foot is to begin a relationship or endeavor badly, creating an unfavorable first impression or early misunderstanding that makes things harder going forward: We started off on the wrong foot when I accidentally insulted her hometown.
The opposite is to start off on the right foot.
- false startPremature beginning violation
- get off on the wrong footStart badly with someone
- apologyStatement acknowledging wrongdoing
- frustrationDispleasure from blocked efforts
- miscommunicationFailed exchange of meaning
faux pas · mistake · misunderstanding · awkward silence · embarrassment · failure · hit a snag · awkwardness · rough patch · second chance · start over · reconciliation · mend fences · setback · discouragement · error · rub someone the wrong way · burned bridges