off and running: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘off and running’ mean?

The idiom "off and running" means to be actively engaged in a successful and productive activity or endeavor. It implies a quick and confident start, often with a sense of excitement and momentum.

Idiom Explorer

Deciphering Momentum

The idiom "up and running" is closely related to the phrase "off and running." While "off and running" primarily focuses on the start and initiation of something, "up and running" describes the state of being fully operational or functional. It suggests that a task, system, or project has successfully started and is now functioning as intended.

The phrase "up and running" is often used in relation to technology, particularly in the context of setting up and starting a new system or software. It signifies that the system is now in operation and ready for use. For example, someone might say, "We just installed the new software, and it is now up and running."

However, "up and running" can also be applied to various other situations beyond technology. It can describe the successful start of a business, the functioning of a team or organization, or even the recovery of a person after an illness or setback.

Similar to "off and running," the phrase "up and running" conveys a sense of progress and momentum. It implies that whatever was initiated is now in motion and achieving its intended purpose. The idiom also suggests that any initial challenges or obstacles have been overcome, and things are now running smoothly.

Off and running, let's begin the progress.

The idiom "run off" is another expression that has a different meaning from both "off and running" and "up and running." It refers to leaving quickly or suddenly, often with a sense of urgency or necessity. When someone "runs off," they are typically attempting to escape or avoid a situation.

The phrase "run off" is commonly used in various contexts to describe a swift departure. It might refer to someone leaving a location abruptly, such as running off from a meeting, a party, or a place of danger. It can also be used metaphorically to describe avoiding or escaping a responsibility or commitment.

Unlike "off and running" and "up and running," which both suggest progress and forward movement, "run off" implies a different kind of action. It indicates a sudden shift or change, often driven by the need to get away or avoid something.

While "off and running" and "up and running" have positive or neutral connotations, "run off" carries a negative or cautionary tone. It implies that the person or situation running off may have unresolved issues or complications.

The idioms "off and running," "up and running," and "run off" have distinct meanings and applications. "Off and running" captures the start and momentum of a task or venture, "up and running" describes the state of being fully operational or functional, and "run off" signifies a sudden departure or avoidance. These idioms, with their figurative nature, provide colorful and expressive ways to convey different aspects of action, progress, and movement in various contexts.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "off and running" can be used in a sentence:

  1. The team scored two quick goals in the first five minutes of the game and they were off and running.
  2. After the successful launch of their new product, the company is off and running with sales exceeding expectations.
  3. Once the project received the necessary funding, the team was off and running, working tirelessly to meet the deadline.

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