What does “Kick into gear” mean?

"Kick into gear" means to start working or functioning effectively.

What context can I use the in?

Example

After a slow start, the project finally kicked into gear and made significant progress.

Example

I had trouble getting motivated, but once I started exercising, my energy kicked into gear.

Example

The team was struggling in the first half, but after a pep talk from the coach, they kicked into gear and won the game

Is “Kick into gear” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?

“Kick into gear” 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 “Kick into gear” effectively in context?

You can use "Kick into Gear" to describe a situation where something starts working or functioning effectively after a period of slow progress or inactivity. It emphasizes the idea of a sudden burst of energy or momentum. For example, if a project is struggling to make progress, you might say, 'Finally, the project "kicked into gear" and we started seeing significant results.'

1Project Management
After a slow start, the project finally kicked into gear and made significant progress.
2Personal Motivation
I had trouble getting motivated, but once I started exercising, my energy kicked into gear.
3Sports
The team was struggling in the first half, but after a pep talk from the coach, they kicked into gear and won the game.

Similar phrases to “Kick into gear”:

Get the ball rolling

To start an activity or process

Example

Let's get the ball rolling and start working on this project.

Hit the ground running

To start a new activity or project quickly and energetically

Example

She joined the company and hit the ground running, making an immediate impact.

Spring into action

To start acting quickly and energetically

Example

When the fire alarm went off, the employees sprang into action and evacuated the building.

Good things to know:

Where does the phrase “Kick into gear” come from?

The origin of the phrase "Kick into Gear" is unknown.

Is “Kick into gear” common in everyday conversation?

Yes, "Kick into Gear" is a commonly used expression in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe situations where something starts working effectively or gains momentum after a period of slow progress or inactivity.

What tone does “Kick into gear” have?

"Kick into Gear" conveys a tone of excitement and positive energy. It's often used to describe a sudden burst of productivity or progress.

Can “Kick into gear” be used in informal and formal settings?

Yes, "Kick into Gear" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that conveys the idea of something starting to work effectively. You can use it in casual conversations with friends and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as presentations or professional discussions.

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

It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'After a slow start, the project finally "kicked into gear".' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'Time to "kick into gear"!' to imply readiness to start working effectively.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

start working effectively
gain momentum
pick up speed
get going
rev up

Antonyms

stall
lose steam
slow down
lose momentum
grind to a halt