The ball rolling

Meaning

The idiom "the ball is rolling" refers to the progress or forward motion of something that has started moving, especially when it has gained momentum and is now rolling smoothly. It can also mean that things are going well, events are happening as planned, or a project is making good headway. The figurative meaning of this idiom is often used to express excitement, optimism, or satisfaction with the current situation.

Usage

• We're finally getting started on our new business venture, and the ball is rolling!
• After years of planning, the construction project has finally begun, and things are moving forward smoothly.
• The ball is rolling in my career – I got a promotion last month, and I'm feeling so excited about what the future holds.
• We're making great progress on our research paper, and the ball is rolling towards submission day.
• With the pandemic under control and vaccines being distributed, things are starting to return to normal, and the ball is rolling in terms of economic recovery. The usage of this idiom can vary depending on the context. In some cases, it may be used to express a sense of relief or satisfaction that something has finally started moving after a period of stagnation or indecision. In other cases, it may be used to express excitement or anticipation for what is yet to come.

Roots and History

The exact origins of the idiom "the ball is rolling" are unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the world of sports or athletics. It may have originally referred to a player's progress in a game or match, with the ball being used as a symbol of movement and success. Over time, the phrase has been adapted and applied to other fields and situations, including personal goals, business projects, and even social events.

Synonyms in English

• Things are moving forward smoothly.
• The momentum is building.
• The action is picking up speed.
• We're making good headway.
• We're on track.

Synonyms in other languages

• La balle est en roue libre (French) - means the ball is rolling smoothly or freely.
• Der Ball ist gerollt (German) - means the ball has rolled or moved forward.
• Il balla (Italian) - means he is dancing or moving in a rhythmic way.
• La bola está rodando (Spanish) - means the ball is rolling smoothly or on track.
• هذ个球儿正在逃跑（Japanese）- means the ball (or situation) is running away from us.

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