What does “Head Start” mean?

"Head Start" means having an early advantage or opportunity.

What context can I use the in?

Example

She got a Head Start in her career by interning at a top company.

Example

The team's strong performance in the first quarter gave them a Head Start in the competition.

Example

His parents enrolled him in a prestigious preschool to give him a Head Start in his education

Is “Head Start” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Head Start” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.

How would I use “Head Start” effectively in context?

You can use "Head Start" to refer to an early advantage or opportunity that someone has. It implies that they have started ahead of others and have a better chance of success. For example, if someone gets an internship at a top company, you might say, 'She got a "Head Start" in her career by interning at a top company.'

1Education
His parents enrolled him in a prestigious preschool to give him a Head Start in his education.
2Competition
The team's strong performance in the first quarter gave them a Head Start in the competition.
3Career
She got a Head Start in her career by interning at a top company.

Similar phrases to “Head Start”:

Jump the gun

To start or do something too soon, without waiting for the appropriate time

Example

He jumped the gun and started the project before receiving approval.

Get a leg up

To receive an advantage or assistance that helps in achieving success

Example

Her mentor gave her a leg up in the industry by recommending her for a prestigious position.

Take the lead

To be in a position of advantage or control

Example

The company's innovative approach allowed them to take the lead in the market.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Head Start” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Head Start" is unknown.

Is “Head Start” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Head Start" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. It is often used to describe someone who has an early advantage or opportunity in various aspects of life.

What tone does “Head Start” have?

"Head Start" conveys a tone of advantage and opportunity. It suggests that someone has a head start over others and may have a better chance of success.

Can “Head Start” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Head Start" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It is a versatile expression that can be used in casual conversations as well as in more formal situations such as presentations, interviews, or professional correspondence.

Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?

It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'She got a head start in her career.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time for a "Head Start"!' to imply readiness to take advantage of an opportunity.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

Antonyms

behind
lagging behind
playing catch-up
starting from scratch