ENGLISH
REFERENCE

get to first base

idiom
Meaning

To get as far as the first phase or milestone of a goal.


Examples
SIMPLE

We cannot even get to first base with this project yet.

CONTEXTUAL

The team struggled to get to first base because they could not agree on a budget.

COMPLEX

Despite their elaborate preparations, the negotiators failed to get to first base during the initial round of discussions.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    base over apex

    Falling over in a jumbled heap.

  2. 02

    blink first

    To be the first party in some situation to give in or back down.

  3. 03

    can't get enough

    Greatly enjoys; likes a lot.

  4. 04

    cast the first stone

    To act self-righteously in accusing another person, believing oneself to be blameless.

  5. 05

    come first

    To win first place in a competition.

  6. 06

    could not get elected dogcatcher

    Said of someone, particularly a politician, who is extremely unpopular.

  7. 07

    director of first impressions

    A receptionist.

  8. 08

    don't get someone started

    Used to attempt to avoid or abbreviate a discussion that speaker or hearer may wish to avoid.

© 2026 English Reference