kick in: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘kick in’ mean?
The idiom "kick in" means to start or take effect, typically referring to the beginning of a process, action, or reaction.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "set in motion" means to initiate or start something, typically referring to a process or action. It implies initiating movement or progress towards a goal.
The idiom "kick the habit" means to stop or break a bad or addictive behavior or addiction. It can refer to giving up smoking, drugs, or any other negative habit.
The idiom "kick someone when they are down" means to take advantage of someone's vulnerable state or exploit their weakness for personal gain or to further harm them.
The idiom "kick out" means to forcefully make someone leave or expel them from a place or a group, often due to misbehavior or non-compliance with rules.
The idiom "kick one's heels" means to wait idly or impatiently for something or someone without any purpose or result.
The idiom "kick off" means to start or begin something, often forcefully or enthusiastically. It can also refer to the moment a game or event begins.
The idiom "kick it" means to relax, have fun, or spend time casually with friends or acquaintances. It often implies a laid-back and informal atmosphere, where one can enjoy themselves without any specific agenda or responsibilities.
The idiom "kick into touch" means to deliberately avoid dealing with something or to delay a decision or action. It is often used in contexts where someone is trying to avoid taking responsibility or facing a difficult or unpleasant situation.
The idiom "kicking boots" refers to a person who is in a state of great energy, enthusiasm, or readiness to take action.
Unexpected transformation
The idiom "kick in" has several meanings and uses in the English language. Here are the facts about this idiom:
The term "kick in" comes from the verb "kick," which means to strike with the foot.
One common meaning of "kick in" is to start or begin. For example, if someone says, "I'll kick in with some money for the party," they are indicating that they will contribute funds to the event. In this sense, "kick in" is often used to describe the beginning of a joint effort or contribution, such as when multiple people pitch in for a shared expense.
Another use of "kick in" is to describe the effect or impact of something. For instance, if someone says, "The pain from the injury didn't kick in until the next day," they mean that the pain started or became noticeable at a certain point in time. In this context, "kick in" is often used to describe the onset or activation of a physical sensation, emotion, or effect.
"Kick in" can also be used to convey the idea of taking action or making a significant effort. For example, if someone exclaims, "I need to kick in and get this project finished!" they are expressing a desire to dedicate themselves fully to the task. In this sense, "kick in" emphasizes the need for a strong and determined effort.
The idiom "kick off" is related to "kick in." It means to start or begin, often in reference to an event or activity. While "kick in" focuses on the contribution or impact of an action, "kick off" is more about the initiation or commencement of an event or project. Both idioms convey the concept of starting something, but with slightly different nuances.
Another related idiom is "set in motion." This phrase also implies the beginning or initiation of something. It suggests that an action or process has been set into motion and is now in progress. While "kick in" and "kick off" emphasize the act of starting, "set in motion" focuses on the continued progress or movement of a project or event.
Overall, the idiom "kick in" has multiple meanings and can be used in various contexts. It signifies the beginning, impact, or contribution of something, whether it be a physical sensation, an event, or an effort. The versatility of this idiom allows it to be employed in different situations, providing a concise and expressive way to communicate these concepts in everyday language.
While the facts about the idiom "kick in" have been presented here, there is still an openness to explore its nuances further. Language is a dynamic and ever-evolving entity, and idioms continue to adapt and acquire new shades of meaning. The possibilities of interpretation and usage within the realm of "kick in" are vast, offering opportunities for exploration and inquiry. As we delve deeper into the complexities of idiomatic expressions, we uncover the richness and depth of our language, revealing the intricate tapestry woven by the humans who utilize it.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "kick in" can be used in a sentence:
- After waiting for hours, her patience finally kicked in and she decided to leave.
- Once the pain medication starts to kick in, you'll feel much better.
- His survival instincts kicked in and he knew he had to find a way out of the dangerous situation.
More "verbs" idioms
