PhrasesHub

Get - underway

    Definitions

      • start or commence
        To begin or start something, such as a project, task, or journey

      • become operational
        To become operational or active, especially in reference to a vehicle or machinery

    Examples of Get - underway

    • The captain signaled for the anchor to be raised, and we finally got underway after a long delay due to bad weather.

      In this example, "get underway" is a phrasal verb meaning to start moving, in this case, it refers to a ship. The sentence illustrates the use of this idiom in the context of boating or traveling by sea.

    • The team huddled together for one last pep talk before getting underway for the playoffs.

      Here, the idiom is used in a sports context, where it means to begin a competition or event. In this scenario, the team has prepared for the competition and is now starting the game or tournament.

    • After months of negotiations, the two parties finally got underway with a historic peace agreement.

      This example demonstrates the use of the idiom in a more ambitious and purposeful way. Here, it signifies the official start of a significant and noteworthy event, such as a peace agreement between two nations.

    • The teacher handed out the instructions and encouraged the students to get underway with the assignment.

      In this final example, the idiom is used in a more teaching-oriented context. It shows that the students have been given the necessary materials or instructions to begin working on an assignment. The sentence highlights the importance of getting started promptly and efficiently.

    • The construction of the new stadium finally got underway last month.

      This idiom is used when referring to the start of a project or activity. In this example, the construction of the new stadium had been planned for some time, but it wasn't until last month that it actually began.

    • The captain ordered the ship to get underway at dawn.

      Here, "get underway" means to begin moving, typically used for boats or ships. In this example, the captain ordered the crew to start moving the ship at dawn.

    • After months of delays, the training program finally got underway this week.

      This example is similar to the first, as it refers to the start of an activity or project that had been delayed. In this instance, the training program had been scheduled to begin for some time, but it was only this week that it finally started.

    • The meeting got underway promptly at 9am.

      This example involves using the idiom to describe the start time of a meeting or event. Here, the meeting started at 9am without any delays or interruptions. Additionally, "promptly" is used to emphasize the punctuality of the start.In each of these examples, "get underway" is used to indicate the beginning of an activity or project, and the sentence structure varies depending on the context.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "get underway" is commonly used to indicate the start or commencement of something. It can refer to beginning a project, task, or journey, as well as becoming operational or active. The idiom is often used in a variety of contexts, from business and work-related settings to travel and transportation.

    In everyday conversations, people might use this idiom to signify the start of a new venture or the activation of a mechanical device. It is a versatile phrase that can convey the idea of getting something started or becoming operational in a clear and concise manner.

    Origin of "Get - underway"

    The origin of the idiom "get underway" can be traced back to nautical terminology. In maritime contexts, "underway" refers to a ship or boat being in motion or making progress. When a vessel is preparing to depart from a dock or harbor, it is said to "get underway" as it begins its journey.

    Over time, the use of "get underway" has extended beyond maritime language to become a common expression in everyday speech. Its origins in the world of sailing and seafaring have contributed to its widespread use as a metaphor for starting or commencing a wide range of activities and endeavors. The idiom's connection to the motion of a ship has given it a sense of forward momentum and action, making it an apt choice for conveying the idea of getting something started or becoming operational.