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What does “get the ball rolling” mean?

Meaning, example sentences and a quick practice question.

To start something happening or moving forward

“Let's get the ball rolling on the new project.”

From the B2 lesson Cutting to the Chase (workplace idioms).

To start something moving or happening

“Someone needs to send the first email to get the ball rolling.”

Say it smoothly: “ge-the-ball-rolling”

From the C1 lesson Making Plans (invitations and arranging).

Quick check

What does “get the ball rolling” mean?

Teaching this phrase?“get the ball rolling” is part of a ready-to-teach lesson, with a reading, three exercises, speaking tasks and an answer key, in Everyday English Chunks B2 Pack 3 (Money, Food, Work and Travel) and Everyday English Chunks C1 Pack 2 (Plans, Problems and Feelings).
See the B2 lesson pack See the C1 lesson pack

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Related phrases

cut to the chaseto get to the point without wasting time on unnecessary details
think outside the boxto think creatively, in a different or unusual way
back to the drawing boardsaid when a plan has failed and you need to start again
all hands on decka situation where everyone needs to help
a game changersomething that changes a situation significantly, usually for the better
touch base with (someone)to make brief contact with someone, often to check on progress
be on the same pageto have the same understanding or agreement about something
raise the barto set a higher standard than before
keep someone in the loopto keep someone informed about what's happening
take someone up on (something)to accept an offer or invitation that someone has made
at your conveniencewhenever suits you, with no particular rush
a standing invitationan invitation that's always open, and doesn't need to be renewed