stage of the game: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘stage of the game’ mean?
The idiom "stage of the game" refers to a particular point or phase in a process or activity where progress has been made and certain factors or circumstances have changed.
Idiom Explorer
An idiom meaning in the way that something is done or in a particular style.
The idiom "stepping stone" refers to something or someone that helps you progress or advance towards a goal or a higher position.
"Stage right" refers to the right side of the stage when facing the audience. It is commonly used in theater to give directions or indicate the positioning of actors or objects during a performance.
The idiom "so far so good" means that things are progressing well up until now or a certain point, but it does not guarantee future success or outcomes.
The idiom "skin in the game" means to have a personal stake or investment in a situation, typically involving a risk or potential loss. It implies that someone is personally involved and stands to gain or lose something based on the outcome.
The idiom "sign of the times" refers to a current event, trend, or situation that is indicative of the prevailing attitudes, values, or circumstances of a particular period in history.
"Set the stage" means to prepare or create the necessary conditions or environment for something to happen or be successful, often used to refer to a situation that will enable a specific event or outcome. It originates from the theater, where setting the stage involves arranging props, scenery, and lighting to create the desired atmosphere for a performance.
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 "run of play" refers to the general flow or direction of a game or activity. It suggests that events are unfolding in a natural or expected manner, without any significant changes or interruptions.
Deciphering the Progression
A stage of the game is a specific point or phase in a process or endeavor. It's an advanced or crucial stage where there is already significant progress, and important decisions or actions are expected to take place. The idiom "in the game" is related to this concept, emphasizing that someone is actively involved and participating in a particular situation or activity.
The origin and specific history of the idiom "stage of the game" is unclear, but it is likely that it has emerged from the world of sports, where games are played in stages or periods. However, its usage extends beyond sports, and it is commonly used in various contexts. For example, in the business world, it can describe the different stages of a project, deal, or negotiation process. It signifies that significant milestones have been reached and critical decisions are about to be made.
The idiom "milestone" is also related to the stage of the game. A milestone is a significant event or achievement that marks a point of progress or development. It represents a key moment in a process or endeavor. Similarly, the concept of a stage of the game emphasizes that important actions or decisions are expected to take place. It highlights that a significant amount of effort has been invested and progress has been made.
Another related idiom is "name of the game," which refers to the essential or most important aspect of a particular situation or activity. In the context of the stage of the game, the name of the game is reaching important milestones and making critical decisions. It emphasizes that these are the key elements that determine success or progress in a particular endeavor.
The idiom "ahead of the game" is also relevant to the stage of the game. It means being in a favorable or advantageous position compared to others. In the context of the stage of the game, being ahead of the game means being in a position of significant progress or development. It implies that important decisions or actions have already been taken, giving someone an advantage over others.
The idiom "stage of the game" is versatile and used in various contexts to describe a specific point or phase in a process or endeavor. It signifies that there is already significant progress or development and important decisions or actions are expected to take place. It is related to idioms such as "in the game," "milestone," "name of the game," and "ahead of the game," which further enhance the understanding of the advanced or crucial nature of a particular situation or activity.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom *stage of the game* can be used in a sentence:
- She was already a successful entrepreneur, but she knew she was only in the early stage of the game.
- At this stage of the game, it's too late to make any major changes to the project.
- He had studied hard throughout high school and now, in the last stage of the game, he was ready for college.
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