shift gears
To change pace or mode of operation.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“We need to shift gears and focus on the next project.”
“After discussing the budget for an hour, the team decided to shift gears and brainstorm new marketing ideas.”
“The author chose to shift gears in the final chapter, moving from a slow, descriptive narrative to a fast-paced and dramatic conclusion.”
- 01
all the gear and no idea
Having high-quality, expensive equipment for a risky or difficult activity, without any of the requisite knowledge.
- 02
click into gear
To start to perform effectively or to progress
- 03
find another gear
To suddenly achieve an extra burst of athletic performance, especially after a sustained period of competitive exertion.
- 04
fourth gear
A maximal level of effort.
- 05
gear up
To prepare for an activity.
- 06
get one's ass in gear
To exert effective effort; to get going; to get moving; to start producing.
- 07
go through the gears
To gain momentum; to get up to speed.
- 08
grind one's gears
To annoy or irritate one.
Last updated August 10, 2026