ENGLISH
REFERENCE

running start

idiom
Meaning

An initial advantage at the beginning of some action or pursuit; a head start.


Examples
SIMPLE

Starting early gives you a running start on the project.

CONTEXTUAL

Because she studied the material all summer, she had a running start when the difficult semester finally began.

COMPLEX

By securing the initial funding from private investors, the startup gained a significant running start over its competitors in the crowded technology market.

Anchors to
Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    flying start

    An especially good start.

  2. 02

    fresh start

    A new beginning, without prejudices.

  3. 03

    head start

    An advantage consisting in starting a competition or task earlier than might be expected; given (or taken), for example, prior to the beginning of a race.

  4. 04

    hit the ground running

    To begin an activity immediately and with full commitment.

  5. 05

    if I'm not there, start without me

    I am not interested in the event and do not plan to attend.

  6. 06

    make the running

    To have a leading or influential position in a field or activity; to be more active than others.

  7. 07

    off and running

    Launched or launching vigorously into a course of action.

  8. 08

    start a family

    To conceive one's first child

© 2026 English Reference