get the show on the road: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘get the show on the road’ mean?
The idiom "get the show on the road" means to start or begin an activity or event. It is often used to suggest that it is time to stop planning or talking and actually start doing something.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "on the way" means that something is currently in progress or about to happen. It suggests that something is not yet completed or arrived, but is in the process of getting there.
The idiom "go to work" means to start doing the necessary tasks or activities to achieve a particular goal or result.
The idiom "get to the point" means to speak or write directly and concisely, without unnecessary details or digressions.
The idiom "get there" means to achieve a goal or reach a desired destination. It implies successfully completing a task or journey.
The idiom "get the lead out" means to hurry up or move faster, often used as an expression to urge someone to stop procrastinating or to speed up their actions.
The idiom "get the door" means to open the door for someone or go and answer the door when someone is at the door.
The idiom "get the ball rolling" means to initiate or start something, especially a discussion, activity, or project. It suggests taking the first step to move forward and set things in motion.
The idiom "get stuck in" means to start working on something with enthusiasm and determination, often in a hands-on or proactive manner.
"Get started" means to begin or initiate something. It implies taking the first step or getting the ball rolling on a task or project.
Unleashing the Action
"let's get this circus on the road" is a related idiom that emphasizes the urgency and importance of starting a project or activity. It is a more colorful and exaggerated version of "get the show on the road," using the imagery of a circus to convey a sense of excitement and anticipation. Just as a circus requires coordination and preparation before the performance can begin, this idiom emphasizes the need to mobilize and take action in order to achieve a goal.
"get off the ground" is another related idiom that conveys the idea of initiating a project or endeavor. It refers to the act of starting something from scratch and overcoming initial challenges or obstacles. Just as a plane needs to get off the ground before it can take flight, this idiom highlights the importance of taking those first crucial steps to launch a project and get it moving towards success.
"get the ball rolling" is a third related idiom that shares a similar meaning to "get the show on the road" and "let's get this circus on the road." It emphasizes the need to start an activity or task, often by taking the lead or initiating the first action. The idiom uses the metaphor of a ball to represent the momentum and forward progress that is necessary to achieve a goal. By "getting the ball rolling," individuals or teams are encouraged to take that initial step and set the project in motion.
When we think about the phrase "get the show on the road" and its related idioms, it becomes clear that they all emphasize the importance of taking action and moving forward with a project or activity. These idioms serve as motivational reminders to overcome delays or hesitation and instead focus on initiating and progressing towards a goal.
Just as a circus requires meticulous planning and preparation before the performances can begin, any project or endeavor requires a similar level of coordination and organization. It is important to have a clear roadmap and strategy in place before taking action. However, it is equally important to not get caught up in overthinking or excessive planning. The idioms "get the show on the road" and "let's get this circus on the road" remind us that at some point, we must move beyond planning and actually begin the task at hand.
It is often said that a journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. This sentiment holds true in the context of these idioms as well. Whether it's getting the show on the road, getting off the ground, or getting the ball rolling, the idiom serves as a call to action and motivates individuals to take that crucial first step. Once the ball is in motion, momentum builds, and progress becomes more attainable.
These idioms also highlight the importance of collaboration and teamwork. Just as a circus requires the efforts of many individuals working together to set up and perform, any project or endeavor benefits from collective action. "Let's get this circus on the road" and "get the ball rolling" emphasize the need for individuals to come together, pool their resources, and work towards a common goal. By working as a team, the chances of success are significantly increased.
It is also worth noting that despite their similarity in meaning, these idioms have their own unique nuances and imagery. The phrase "let's get this circus on the road" brings to mind a vibrant and energetic atmosphere, where various performers and acts come together to create an unforgettable experience. In contrast, "get off the ground" conjures images of a plane lifting off, symbolizing the moment when a project starts to gain altitude and make progress. "Get the ball rolling" evokes the image of a ball that is set in motion, gradually gaining speed and momentum.
Ultimately, these idioms remind us of the need to translate ideas and plans into action. By following the rules of AP style and incorporating these idioms naturally throughout the text, we can bring clarity, structure, and readability to our writing. With concise sentences, a conversational tone, and a friendly writing style, we can engage our audience and communicate our ideas effectively. So, let's take a deep breath, get the show on the road, get off the ground, and get the ball rolling. It's time to make it happen!
Example usage
1. We've been talking about our plans for too long, it's about time we get the show on the road and start taking action.
2. The conference is about to begin. Let's wrap up this conversation and get the show on the road.
3. After months of preparation, the opening night of the play is finally here. It's time to get the show on the road and give our best performance.
More "Initiation" idioms
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