The phrase “get the ball rolling” is a common idiom that means to start something. It often refers to beginning a project, conversation, event, plan, or process.
Although it is useful and widely understood, using the same phrase repeatedly can make your writing sound repetitive. Fortunately, there are many natural alternatives that can better match a professional, formal, casual, or friendly situation.
What Does “Get the Ball Rolling” Mean?
“Get the ball rolling” means to begin an activity or take the first step toward making something happen. It often suggests creating momentum so that a project, discussion, or process can continue.
People commonly use this phrase when talking about meetings, events, projects, plans, and conversations. For example, someone might say, “Let’s get the ball rolling on the new marketing campaign.”
The phrase is popular because it creates a clear image of starting movement. Once the ball begins rolling, things can continue moving forward.
Why Use Other Ways to Say “Get the Ball Rolling”?
Using different expressions helps your communication sound more natural and precise. The best alternative can also help you match your language to a specific audience or situation.
Here are a few benefits:
- Avoid repeating the same phrase.
- Match your tone to the situation.
- Sound more professional in business communication.
- Make casual conversations feel more natural.
- Express your message with greater clarity.
10 Best Other Ways to Say “Get the Ball Rolling”
1. Get Things Started
Meaning
“Get things started” is a simple and natural way to say that you are beginning something. It works in many situations and is easy for almost anyone to understand.
Best For
- Casual
- Friendly
- Professional
Example 1
Let’s get things started with a quick introduction from everyone on the team.
Example 2
We should get things started early so we have enough time to finish before lunch.
Quick Tip
Use this phrase when you want a clear, flexible alternative that fits both conversations and workplace situations.
2. Kick Things Off
Meaning
“Kick things off” means to officially begin an event, activity, discussion, or project. It has an energetic and confident tone.
Best For
- Professional
- Casual
- Friendly
Example 1
The CEO will kick things off with a short welcome speech.
Example 2
Let’s kick things off by reviewing our goals for the quarter.
Quick Tip
This is one of the closest and most natural alternatives to “get the ball rolling.”
3. Get Underway
Meaning
“Get underway” means to begin or officially start moving forward. It is often used when discussing projects, meetings, events, or larger activities.
Best For
- Professional
- Formal
Example 1
Construction is expected to get underway next month.
Example 2
The meeting got underway shortly after all the guests arrived.
Quick Tip
Use this phrase when discussing a process or event that is formally beginning.
4. Start the Process
Meaning
“Start the process” means to begin a series of actions that will lead to a particular result. It is direct and especially useful in professional communication.
Best For
- Professional
- Formal
Example 1
Please complete the application form to start the process.
Example 2
Once we receive your approval, we can start the process immediately.
Quick Tip
Choose this phrase when you are referring to a structured procedure rather than a casual activity.
5. Set Things in Motion
Meaning
“Set things in motion” means to take the first action that causes other events or activities to begin. It often suggests that your initial step will lead to further progress.
Best For
- Professional
- Formal
Example 1
The committee approved the proposal and set things in motion.
Example 2
One phone call was enough to set the entire project in motion.
Quick Tip
Use this expression when you want to emphasize the effect of an important first step.
6. Make a Start
Meaning
“Make a start” means to begin working on something, even if only a small amount of progress is made at first. It can suggest taking action rather than waiting for the perfect moment.
Best For
- Casual
- Professional
Example 1
We may not finish today, but we can at least make a start.
Example 2
I spent the morning making a start on the presentation.
Quick Tip
Use this phrase when beginning gradually or when the task will take time to complete.
7. Begin the Conversation
Meaning
“Begin the conversation” means to start discussing a topic with another person or group. It is useful when the focus is specifically on communication.
Best For
- Professional
- Formal
- Polite
Example 1
The survey helped begin the conversation about workplace culture.
Example 2
I wanted to begin the conversation before making any final decisions.
Quick Tip
Use this phrase for discussions, negotiations, sensitive topics, and important conversations.
8. Get the Show on the Road
Meaning
“Get the show on the road” means to finally begin something after preparation or waiting. It is an informal expression with an upbeat and energetic feel.
Best For
- Casual
- Friendly
Example 1
Everyone is here, so let’s get the show on the road.
Example 2
After weeks of planning, we were ready to get the show on the road.
Quick Tip
This phrase is best for informal situations and may sound too casual in a formal business document.
9. Take the First Step
Meaning
“Take the first step” means to begin a process by doing the first necessary action. It often emphasizes courage, initiative, or progress.
Best For
- Professional
- Friendly
- Warm
Example 1
The hardest part is often deciding to take the first step.
Example 2
She took the first step by contacting the client directly.
Quick Tip
Use this phrase when you want to highlight initiative or the importance of beginning.
10. Initiate the Process
Meaning
“Initiate the process” is a formal way to say that you are beginning an organized procedure. It is common in business, legal, administrative, and technical settings.
Best For
- Professional
- Formal
Example 1
The HR department will initiate the process once all documents are received.
Example 2
We need management approval before we can initiate the process.
Quick Tip
Choose this phrase for formal writing, official communication, and structured business procedures.
Comparison Table
| Alternative | Best Used In | Tone |
| Get things started | Conversations, meetings | Natural |
| Kick things off | Events, meetings, projects | Energetic |
| Get underway | Projects, events | Professional |
| Start the process | Procedures, applications | Direct |
| Set things in motion | Plans, major decisions | Formal |
| Make a start | Tasks and projects | Natural |
| Begin the conversation | Discussions and meetings | Polite |
| Get the show on the road | Informal events | Casual |
| Take the first step | Personal and professional goals | Encouraging |
| Initiate the process | Official procedures | Formal |
Common Mistakes
1. Using Casual Phrases in Formal Documents
Expressions like “get the show on the road” can sound too informal in official reports or serious business communication. Choose a phrase such as “initiate the process” when formality matters.
2. Choosing Language That Is Too Formal
Very formal alternatives can sound stiff in everyday conversations. Match your wording to the people and situation.
3. Repeating the Same Expression
Using “get the ball rolling” too often can make your writing feel repetitive. Switch between natural alternatives when the meaning stays the same.
4. Forgetting the Context
Not every alternative fits every situation. “Begin the conversation” works well for discussions, while “start the process” is better for procedures.
5. Using an Idiom Your Audience May Not Understand
Idioms can sometimes confuse readers, especially in international communication. If clarity is important, choose a direct phrase such as “get things started.”
Frequently Asked Questions
What is another way to say “get the ball rolling”?
A common alternative is “get things started.” Other options include “kick things off,” “set things in motion,” “make a start,” and “take the first step.” The best choice depends on whether you need a casual, professional, or formal tone.
What does “get the ball rolling” mean?
“Get the ball rolling” means to begin something or take the first step toward making something happen. People often use it when starting a project, meeting, event, conversation, or other activity that requires action and momentum.
Is “kick things off” the same as “get the ball rolling”?
Yes, “kick things off” has a very similar meaning. Both phrases refer to starting something. However, “kick things off” often sounds more energetic and is especially common when beginning meetings, events, presentations, or group activities.
What is a professional way to say “get the ball rolling”?
Professional alternatives include “start the process,” “set things in motion,” “get underway,” and “initiate the process.” These expressions are useful in business emails, meetings, reports, and workplace discussions where a more polished tone is appropriate.
How do you say “get the ball rolling” formally?
For formal communication, try “initiate the process,” “commence the process,” or “set things in motion.” These alternatives sound more structured and professional than casual idioms and work well in official business or administrative contexts.
Can I use “get things started” in a business email?
Yes. “Get things started” is simple, professional, and widely understood. It works well in many business emails, especially when the tone is friendly and straightforward rather than highly formal.
What is the most casual alternative to “get the ball rolling”?
“Get the show on the road” is one of the most casual alternatives. It has a relaxed and upbeat tone and works well with friends, coworkers, or informal groups. Avoid it in highly formal documents or serious professional situations.
What is the best synonym for starting a project?
“Kick things off,” “start the process,” and “set things in motion” are all strong choices for starting a project. “Kick things off” feels energetic, while “start the process” is more direct. “Set things in motion” works well when the first action leads to further progress.
Conclusion
Finding another way to say “get the ball rolling” can help you communicate more clearly and avoid repeating the same expression. “Get things started” is a simple choice for everyday use, while “kick things off” adds energy and enthusiasm. In professional settings, phrases such as “start the process,” “get underway,” and “initiate the process” may sound more appropriate.
With the right alternative, you can start your message naturally, clearly, and with confidence. You can also learn more about the meaning of “get the ball rolling” to better understand when the original idiom is most appropriate.
Sarah Whitfield is the founder and lead editor of Anchors Press. With a background in copyediting and content strategy, she reviews every guide for accuracy, tone, and everyday usefulness before it’s published.
