# starting line

CEFR A2 · Compound

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/starting-line
Updated: 2026-08-05

## Definition

the place on a track or field where people wait to begin a race.

For teachers: a physical or marked boundary indicating the point of commencement for a competitive race. It is also used figuratively to describe the initial stage of a project or process.

## Examples

- The runners are waiting at the starting line.
- Everyone stood behind the starting line, waiting for the official to fire the pistol.
- As the athletes gathered at the starting line, the tension in the stadium became almost palpable.

## Usage notes

- usually used with the preposition 'at' or 'behind'.
- Teaching tip: use this to introduce the concept of compound nouns where the first word is a gerund (-ing form) acting as a descriptor for the second noun.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.