Definition

1. Noun:
   • A quick and auspicious beginning: A situation or period that begins with significant momentum, energy, or advantage, leading to a high likelihood of success.
   • A racing start in which the contestants are already in full motion when they pass the starting line: In sports, a start of a race where competitors begin from a moving position rather than a stationary one.

Usage Examples

• Noun (Quick Beginning):

  • The new project got off to a running start thanks to thorough planning.
  • Her extensive research gave her a running start on writing her thesis.

• Noun (Racing Start):

  • In the relay race, the incoming runner gives the next runner a running start.
  • The race used a running start, with cyclists already at high speed when they crossed the line.

Advanced Usage

• "to get/have a running start": To begin an activity with an initial advantage or strong momentum.
  • The team had a running start on the software update because they had tested the beta version for months.
• "to give someone/something a running start": To provide someone or something with an initial advantage.
  • His internship in the finance department gave him a running start for his banking career.

Variants and Related Words

• Flying start: (Noun) A synonym, often used interchangeably with "running start," especially in the context of races or advantageous beginnings.
  • The company's successful product launch meant it was a flying start for the fiscal year.
• Head start: (Noun) An advantage gained by an early start. While similar, a "head start" typically implies beginning earlier in time, whereas a "running start" emphasizes beginning with existing speed or momentum.
  • Taking summer classes gave her a head start on the fall semester.

Synonyms

• Advantageous beginning: A start that provides a benefit.
• Momentum: The impetus gained by a moving object or a process; often the result of a running start.
• Jump start: (Informal) Something that helps to start an activity or process quickly and energetically.

Related Phrases

• Hit the ground running: (Idiom) To begin a project or activity with great energy and immediate progress, closely related to the concept of a running start.
  • After the training, she was able to hit the ground running in her new role.

Related Idioms

• A leg up: (Idiom) An advantage that helps you to start or succeed. This is a broader term for an advantage, which can be the result of a running start.
  • His mentor's advice gave him a leg up in the competitive industry.

Noun

1. a quick and auspicious beginning
2. a racing start in which the contestants are already in full motion when they pass the starting line