PhrasesHub

Keep the ball rolling

    Definitions

      • maintain momentum
        Encourage continuation of a positive or productive activity or conversation

      • sustain progress
        Ensure that a project or task remains active and productive

    Examples of Keep the ball rolling

    • The project was starting to stall, but our team knew we had to keep the ball rolling. We came up with some new ideas and presented them to management, which helped to reignite our momentum and keep the project moving forward.

      This example demonstrates how the idiom "keep the ball rolling" is used to describe the act of continuing a positive momentum or progress in a project or task. It implies that there is a risk of stopping or slowing down, but by implementing new ideas and staying focused, we can maintain the momentum and keep the project moving forward.

    • After scoring a big win in the last game, the coach urged the team to keep the ball rolling in their upcoming matches. They knew that they had the skill and determination to continue their winning streak and not let up.

      Here, the idiom is used in a sports context to describe how a team can maintain their success and not allow it to slip away. By continuing to play with the same intensity and focus, they can continue to win games and keep the ball rolling.

    • Despite facing some obstacles, our sales team refused to let up and keep the ball rolling. They pivoted their strategy and focused on new leads, ultimately leading to a surge in sales and a record-breaking quarter.

      This example illustrates how the idiom can be used in a business context to describe the importance of persistence and determination in achieving success. By continuing to push forward and make adjustments as needed, the sales team was able to overcome challenges and sustain their momentum.

    • As a freelance writer, I know the importance of keeping the ball rolling when it comes to securing new clients and projects. I always strive to produce high-quality work and deliver it on time, so that my clients continue to trust and choose me for future opportunities.

      In this example, the idiom is used to describe the importance of consistency and reliability in building a successful freelance career. By consistently delivering high-quality work and meeting deadlines, the writer is able to maintain positive relationships with clients and continue to secure new opportunities.

    • The negotiations between the two countries have been progressing smoothly, so let's keep the ball rolling by scheduling another round of talks soon.

      In this scenario, "keep the ball rolling" means maintaining the momentum or progress that has already been made. Just as a person keeps a ball in motion by continuously rolling it, you can keep a positive or productive situation moving forward by taking proactive steps to ensure it continues.

    • The marketing campaign has been a success so far, but we can't afford to sit back and relax. We need to keep the ball rolling by brainstorming new ideas and executing them with the same level of energy and enthusiasm.

      This example shows that "keep the ball rolling" can also be applied to ongoing projects or initiatives. Analogous to how a ball continues to roll unless an external force stops it, a project can continue to make progress as long as it's being actively managed and brought new input and ideas consistently.

    • The team has been working tirelessly to meet the tight deadline, and I can see the fruits of their labor. Let's keep the ball rolling by recognizing their hard work and rewarding them accordingly.

      In this context, "keep the ball rolling" also corresponds to acknowledging and fostering positive outcomes. Similar to how ball movement facilitates the continuation of game play, positive actions in the project's progress, such as the team's hard work, facilitate its ultimate success.

    • After the project's completion, everyone is exhausted, but let's keep the ball rolling by celebrating our achievement and learning from the experience.

      The "keep the ball rolling" idiom can also signify perpetuating a positive outcome beyond the project's completion. Similar to how a ball can continue to roll outside the playing field, the positive actions and learning can be sustained into future endeavors.


    Conclusion

    "Keep the ball rolling" is used to encourage the continuation of a positive or productive activity or conversation, or to ensure that a project or task remains active and productive. The intention is to maintain momentum and sustain progress in a particular endeavor. This idiom is often used in a motivational or supportive context to urge others to keep moving forward and not lose momentum.

    Origin of "Keep the ball rolling"

    The origin of the idiom "keep the ball rolling" can be traced back to the game of football (soccer). In the 19th century, when the game was played with a heavy leather ball, players would keep the ball in motion by kicking or passing it to one another. This constant movement was essential to keep the game dynamic and engaging.

    Over time, the phrase "keep the ball rolling" evolved to be used metaphorically in everyday language to encourage the continuation of any positive or productive activity. It conveys the idea of sustaining momentum and progress, just as in a game of football where keeping the ball in motion is crucial for success. The idiom has since become a popular way to motivate and inspire others to maintain their efforts and not lose momentum in their endeavors.