Meaning: To start something, usually some kind of group activity.

Examples:

“Okay, let’s get the ball rolling,” said the manager at the beginning of the meeting.

“Who wants to get the ball rolling and order first?” asked the waiter.

He’s shy, so he always waits for other people to get the ball rolling.

Pop Quiz:

What’s a good example of getting the ball rolling?

A.  Being the last person in line at the bank.

B.  Being the first person to start dancing at a party.

C.  Relaxing at home on your day off.

To see the correct answer, click on “Continue reading”:

The correct answer is B. Doing something first is getting the ball rolling, so if you’re the first person to start dancing, you’re definitely getting the ball rolling. Now go out there and get the ball rolling and start using this idiom in everyday life!