off and running: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘off and running’ mean?
The idiom "off and running" means to be actively engaged in a successful and productive activity or endeavor. It implies a quick and confident start, often with a sense of excitement and momentum.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "up and running" means that something is operational or functioning as expected after being set up or started. It implies that the initial difficulties or obstacles have been overcome and the system or project is now in full operation.
The idiom "run off" means to leave quickly or flee.
The idiom "out of gas" means to have no more energy, enthusiasm, or motivation to continue doing something. It can also refer to a situation where a vehicle has run out of fuel and is unable to continue running.
"Out and about" means being active or moving around in public. It suggests being out of the house and engaged in various activities or tasks.
The idiom "otherwise engaged" means that someone is busy or occupied with something else and cannot be available or interrupt their current activity. It implies that the person is preoccupied and unavailable for any other tasks or responsibilities at the moment.
The idiom "on with you" means to continue or proceed with something. It is often used to encourage someone to move forward or make progress in a situation or task.
The idiom "on track" means to be progressing or moving forward in a positive and successful way, often in relation to a plan or goal.
An idiom meaning to feel extremely happy and successful.
The idiom "on the way" means that something is currently in progress or about to happen. It suggests that something is not yet completed or arrived, but is in the process of getting there.
The idiom "on the trot" is commonly used in both American and British English. It is believed to have originated from horse racing, where horses would trot during a race. The idiom has evolved to have different meanings and usage over time.
Deciphering Momentum
The idiom "up and running" is closely related to the phrase "off and running." While "off and running" primarily focuses on the start and initiation of something, "up and running" describes the state of being fully operational or functional. It suggests that a task, system, or project has successfully started and is now functioning as intended.
The phrase "up and running" is often used in relation to technology, particularly in the context of setting up and starting a new system or software. It signifies that the system is now in operation and ready for use. For example, someone might say, "We just installed the new software, and it is now up and running."
However, "up and running" can also be applied to various other situations beyond technology. It can describe the successful start of a business, the functioning of a team or organization, or even the recovery of a person after an illness or setback.
Similar to "off and running," the phrase "up and running" conveys a sense of progress and momentum. It implies that whatever was initiated is now in motion and achieving its intended purpose. The idiom also suggests that any initial challenges or obstacles have been overcome, and things are now running smoothly.
The idiom "run off" is another expression that has a different meaning from both "off and running" and "up and running." It refers to leaving quickly or suddenly, often with a sense of urgency or necessity. When someone "runs off," they are typically attempting to escape or avoid a situation.
The phrase "run off" is commonly used in various contexts to describe a swift departure. It might refer to someone leaving a location abruptly, such as running off from a meeting, a party, or a place of danger. It can also be used metaphorically to describe avoiding or escaping a responsibility or commitment.
Unlike "off and running" and "up and running," which both suggest progress and forward movement, "run off" implies a different kind of action. It indicates a sudden shift or change, often driven by the need to get away or avoid something.
While "off and running" and "up and running" have positive or neutral connotations, "run off" carries a negative or cautionary tone. It implies that the person or situation running off may have unresolved issues or complications.
The idioms "off and running," "up and running," and "run off" have distinct meanings and applications. "Off and running" captures the start and momentum of a task or venture, "up and running" describes the state of being fully operational or functional, and "run off" signifies a sudden departure or avoidance. These idioms, with their figurative nature, provide colorful and expressive ways to convey different aspects of action, progress, and movement in various contexts.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "off and running" can be used in a sentence:
- The team scored two quick goals in the first five minutes of the game and they were off and running.
- After the successful launch of their new product, the company is off and running with sales exceeding expectations.
- Once the project received the necessary funding, the team was off and running, working tirelessly to meet the deadline.
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