The Village Idiom

don't get someone started

The idiom don't get someone started means to avoid provoking or encouraging someone to talk about a particular topic because it may result in a long, passionate, or potentially heated conversation.

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In a sentence

  • I mentioned politics and then Bob started ranting for an hour about all the things wrong with the government. I should have known better and not gotten him started.
  • Whenever we talk about movies, Sarah always gets started talking about her favorite actors and won't stop. It's best to avoid the topic altogether to not get her started.
  • John is really passionate about climate change. If you mention anything related to it, he will get started and talk for hours about the need for action.

Where it comes from and how it is used

The idiom "don't get someone started" is a commonly used English expression. It serves as a warning to avoid initiating a discussion or topic that may provoke a strong emotional response or lengthy reply from the person being addressed. Essentially, it conveys the idea that the person being addressed has strong opinions or feelings about the topic, and starting a conversation on that topic may lead to impassioned or overly talkative responses.

The origin and etymology of this idiom are unclear. It is a colloquial phrase that has likely evolved over time through common usage, without any specific historical or cultural origin.

Informally, "don't get someone started" is used in casual conversations among friends or family members. It serves as a way to discourage lengthy or contentious discussions that may not be productive or enjoyable for all parties involved. By warning against initiating a particular topic, this idiom helps maintain a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere.

When someone says "don't get me/us started" or a similar variation, they are expressing their desire to avoid engaging in a potentially heated or lengthy conversation. The anticipation is that the person being addressed has strong opinions or emotions about the topic, which may result in the conversation becoming intense or time-consuming.

The idiom "don't get someone started" serves as a warning or cautionary phrase. Its purpose is to discourage individuals from introducing topics or issues that may trigger passionate or extended responses from the person being addressed. By adhering to this cautionary phrase, individuals aim to maintain a harmonious and enjoyable social interaction by steering clear of contentious topics and minimizing the risk of disagreements or emotional outbursts.

Know an earlier use or a better origin story?Tell us.