keep the ball rolling: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘keep the ball rolling’ mean?
The idiom "keep the ball rolling" means to keep an activity or conversation going, to maintain progress or momentum in a situation. It suggests the idea of keeping things moving forward and not allowing them to come to a standstill.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "press on" means to continue or persevere, despite difficulties or obstacles. It implies determination and the refusal to give up. It can be used to encourage someone to keep going, even when faced with challenges.
The idiom "keep the peace" means to maintain harmony, calm, and order in a situation or relationship, usually by preventing conflict or resolving disputes.
The idiom "keep tabs on" means to monitor or keep a close watch on someone or something. It implies staying informed or updated about the activities, progress, or whereabouts of a person or situation.
The idiom *keep straight* means to continue in the same direction or to maintain a clear and honest approach without deviation.
The idiom "keep someone on their toes" means to keep someone alert, attentive, or prepared for any unexpected situation.
The idiom "keep someone on ice" means to delay or postpone something, typically a decision or action involving someone, usually to wait and see how a situation develops before taking any further action.
The idiomatic phrase "keep someone in the loop" means to include and inform someone about the relevant information and updates regarding a particular situation or project.
The idiom "keep quiet" means to remain silent or not speak, especially when it is important to do so in order to maintain secrecy, avoid trouble, or not reveal information.
The idiom "keep pace" means to maintain a similar speed, progress, or level as someone or something else.
The idiom "keep on trucking" means to persist or continue working hard despite difficulties or setbacks.
Unraveling Origins
The idiom "keep the ball rolling" is a commonly used phrase in English that originated from the sport of football. It means to continue or maintain progress or momentum in a particular situation or activity.
One possible origin of the idiom can be attributed to the game of football, where players aim to score by advancing the ball towards the opposing team's goal. By continuously keeping the ball in motion, the team maintains control and increases their chances of scoring. This same concept of continuous motion and progress has been metaphorically applied to other areas of life.
The phrase "keep the ball rolling" entered the English language as an idiomatic expression in the early 19th century. It gained popularity and became widely used due to its effectiveness in conveying the idea of maintaining momentum and progress.
The idiom is often used in both formal and informal contexts, ranging from professional settings to casual conversations. It conveys a sense of the importance of continuity and forward movement in different situations.
Furthermore, the idiom "keep the ball rolling" is often used figuratively, meaning to maintain the flow or progression of an activity or conversation. It can imply the need for active participation and engagement from all involved parties to avoid stagnation or loss of momentum.
In addition to "keep the ball rolling," there are several related idioms that convey similar meanings. One such idiom is "get the ball rolling," which means to start or initiate an activity or process. It is often used at the beginning of a project or event to emphasize the importance of taking the first step and getting things underway.
Another related idiom is "keep on," which means to continue doing something without stopping or giving up. It emphasizes the need for perseverance and endurance in order to achieve a desired outcome. In the context of "keep the ball rolling," the idiom "keep on" emphasizes the importance of maintaining steady progress and not losing momentum.
Similarly, the idiom "keep it up" is used to encourage someone to continue their efforts or to praise them for their ongoing dedication and hard work. In the context of "keep the ball rolling," "keep it up" serves as a reminder to maintain the energy and forward movement in order to achieve success.
Overall, the idiom "keep the ball rolling" originated from the sport of football and has evolved to represent the idea of maintaining progress and momentum in different contexts. Whether used in professional or social settings, it emphasizes the value of continuous motion and active participation to achieve desired results. By keeping the ball rolling, individuals and groups can overcome obstacles, maintain engagement, and ensure the steady advancement of their goals.
While the origin and exact timeline of the idiom's usage may remain uncertain, its figurative meaning and widespread adoption have solidified its place in the English language.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "keep the ball rolling" can be used in a sentence:
1. Let's make sure everyone contributes to the discussion so we can keep the ball rolling and finish this project on time.
2. The team was losing, but the coach's pep talk during halftime kept the ball rolling and they ended up winning the game.
3. After the initial success of their product launch, the company organized a series of promotional events to keep the ball rolling and maintain momentum.
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