Kick off – to start

Example: Good Morning everyone. Shall we kick off the meeting then? (Football)


On target – making good progress and likely to achieve what has been planned

Example: It looks like we are pretty much on target with this project. (Archery)


Up to scratch – to be of a good standard

Example: I know we have a great team whose work is really up to scratch. (Track and Field)

Know the ropes – to be able to do something well

Example: Our new Sales Director has a lot of experience and really knows all the ropes. (Sailing)

Ballpark figure – a rough estimate

Example: Can you give me a ballpark figure on the total sales costs? (Baseball)


Jump the gun – to do something too soon, especially without thinking about it carefully

Example: We still have some costs to factor in and I don’t want to jump the gun. (Track and Field)

In pole position – to be in the best possible position

Example: We are in pole position to win the contract. (Motor Racing)

Neck and neck – to have the same chance of winning as someone else

Example: We are neck and neck with our competitors, so we really need to work hard to maintain our market share. (Horse Racing)

The ball in our court – to be in a position to make the next step

Example: We have done what we can, the ball is in your court now. (Tennis)


Take our eye off the ball – to make a mistake, especially by doing something carelessly

Example: We really cannot take our eye off the ball with this deal as it will be a real winner for us. (Football)