Top 65 Slang For Started – Meaning & Usage

Starting something new can be both exciting and daunting, especially when it comes to understanding the latest slang. But fear not, because we’ve got you covered. Our team has scoured the internet to bring you a curated list of the top slang words for “started”. Whether you’re looking to impress your friends or simply stay up-to-date with the latest trends, this listicle is your go-to guide. So, let’s dive in and get started on expanding your vocabulary!

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1. Kick off

To start or begin something, often used in the context of events or activities. “Kick off” is a more informal and energetic way to describe the start of something.

For example, “Let’s kick off the party with some music and dancing!”
A sports commentator might say, “The game will kick off at 7 PM.”
In a business meeting, someone might suggest, “Let’s kick off the project with a brainstorming session.”

2. Begin

To start or initiate something. “Begin” is a more formal and neutral term used in various contexts.

For instance, “Let’s begin the meeting with a quick introduction.”
A teacher might say, “We will begin the lesson with a review of the previous material.”
In a cooking recipe, the instructions might state, “Begin by preheating the oven to 350°F.”

3. Commence

To start or initiate something, often used in formal or ceremonial contexts. “Commence” carries a sense of formality and importance.

For example, “Let the ceremony commence!”
A professor might say, “Class, let us commence our discussion on the assigned reading.”
In a graduation ceremony, the speaker might announce, “Ladies and gentlemen, the commencement exercises will now begin.”

4. Initiate

To start or begin something, often used in the context of a process or action. “Initiate” implies taking the first step or introducing something new.

For instance, “He initiated the conversation by asking a thought-provoking question.”
A team leader might say, “Let’s initiate a project to improve our customer service.”
In a computer program, a command might be given to “initiate the shutdown process.”

5. Launch

To start or commence something, often used in the context of introducing a new product, service, or venture. “Launch” carries a sense of excitement and anticipation.

For example, “The company will launch its new smartphone next week.”
A book author might announce, “I’m excited to launch my latest novel at the book signing event.”
In the tech industry, a startup might say, “We are preparing to launch our innovative app in the market.”

6. Set in motion

To start or begin something. “Set in motion” means to cause something to start or to put something into action.

For example, “Let’s set in motion our plan to launch a new product.”
A team leader might say, “We need to set in motion the project by assigning tasks to each team member.”
In a discussion about a business venture, someone might suggest, “We should set in motion a marketing campaign to attract more customers.”

7. Get the ball rolling

To initiate or start an activity or project. “Get the ball rolling” means to begin something or to start the process of something.

For instance, “Let’s get the ball rolling on organizing the event.”
A team member might say, “We need to get the ball rolling on the new project by brainstorming ideas.”
In a meeting, someone might suggest, “We should get the ball rolling on implementing the new software system.”

8. Get things going

To initiate or start something. “Get things going” means to start or begin a task or activity.

For example, “Let’s get things going by assigning roles to each team member.”
A team leader might say, “We need to get things going on the project by setting deadlines.”
In a discussion about a party, someone might suggest, “We should get things going by sending out invitations.”

9. Fire up

To start or begin something with enthusiasm or energy. “Fire up” means to get excited or motivated about starting or doing something.

For instance, “Let’s fire up the team for the upcoming game.”
A coach might say, “We need to fire up the players before the match.”
In a discussion about a new project, someone might suggest, “We should fire up the team by sharing our vision and goals.”

10. Open up

To start or begin something. “Open up” means to initiate or start an activity or process.

For example, “Let’s open up the meeting with a brief introduction.”
A teacher might say, “We need to open up the class with a warm-up activity.”
In a discussion about a new business, someone might suggest, “We should open up the store with a grand opening event.”

11. Jumpstart

To initiate or begin something with a burst of energy or momentum. “Jumpstart” is often used to describe giving something a boost or getting it off the ground quickly.

For example, in a business meeting, someone might suggest, “Let’s jumpstart this project by assigning tasks and setting deadlines.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “We need to jumpstart our offense and score some points.”
A friend might encourage another to start a new hobby by saying, “Why don’t you jumpstart your creativity by taking up painting?”

12. Get cracking

To begin a task or activity, especially with a sense of urgency or efficiency. “Get cracking” implies a need to get started and make progress quickly.

For instance, a boss might say, “We have a tight deadline, so let’s get cracking on this project.”
A teacher might tell their students, “You have a lot of homework tonight, so get cracking and don’t procrastinate.”
A friend might encourage another to start a workout routine by saying, “It’s time to get cracking on your fitness goals.”

13. Get underway

To begin or start a journey, activity, or process. “Get underway” suggests the initiation of something that involves movement or progress.

For example, a captain might announce, “Ladies and gentlemen, we are about to get underway on our flight to Paris.”
A speaker might say, “Now that everyone is here, let’s get underway with the presentation.”
A coach might tell their team, “The game is about to get underway, so let’s focus and give it our all.”

14. Get the show on the road

To begin or start something, especially an event or activity. “Get the show on the road” is often used to encourage prompt action and the initiation of an event or plan.

For instance, a director might say, “We’ve rehearsed enough, let’s get the show on the road.”
A friend might urge another to start a road trip by saying, “Enough planning, let’s get the show on the road and start our adventure.”
A teacher might say to their students, “It’s time to stop talking and get the show on the road with our lesson.”

15. Set off

To start a journey or trip, often by leaving a particular place. “Set off” implies the act of beginning a physical movement or departure.

For example, a traveler might say, “I’m going to set off on my backpacking trip tomorrow morning.”
A group of friends might decide to set off on a road trip and explore new destinations.
A hiker might announce, “I’m setting off on a solo adventure to conquer the mountain.”

16. Get going

This phrase means to begin or initiate something. It can be used in a variety of contexts.

For example, “Let’s get going on this project before the deadline.”
A coach might say to their team, “Get going and give it your all on the field.”
Someone might encourage a friend by saying, “Come on, let’s get going and have some fun!”

17. Get the party started

This expression is used to describe the act of initiating or starting a party or event. It implies creating an atmosphere of excitement and enjoyment.

For instance, “DJ, play some upbeat music and get the party started!”
A host might say, “I’ll start pouring the drinks to get the party started.”
A friend might suggest, “Let’s all dance together and get the party started!”

18. Get the wheels turning

This phrase means to start or begin a process or action. It often implies taking the first step towards achieving a goal or making progress.

For example, “We need to get the wheels turning on this new project.”
A leader might say, “Let’s get the wheels turning by brainstorming ideas.”
Someone might encourage a hesitant person by saying, “Take the first step and get the wheels turning!”

19. Set the stage

This expression means to create the necessary conditions or environment for something to happen or begin. It can be used in a literal or figurative sense.

For instance, “The decorations and lighting set the stage for a romantic dinner.”
A director might say, “We need to set the stage for a successful performance.”
A teacher might explain, “The introduction sets the stage for the rest of the lesson.”

20. Take off

This phrase means to start or begin something, often with a sudden or rapid action. It can be used in various contexts.

For example, “The rocket is about to take off into space.”
A musician might say, “Once the drums kick in, the song really takes off.”
Someone might say, “I’m going to take off and start my day early.”

21. Dive in

This phrase is often used to encourage someone to start something without hesitation or fear. It implies diving into a task or activity with full dedication and enthusiasm.

For example, a coach might say to their team, “Let’s dive in and give it our all in this game!”
A friend might encourage another to start a new project by saying, “Don’t be afraid, just dive in and see where it takes you.”
In a work setting, a colleague might say, “We have a tight deadline, so let’s dive in and get this project started.”

22. Pop off

This slang phrase refers to starting something with a burst of energy or intensity. It can also imply starting something abruptly or forcefully.

For instance, a DJ might say, “I’m about to pop off this party with a high-energy track.”
In a conversation about a new business venture, someone might say, “We need to pop off with a strong marketing campaign to get noticed.”
A friend might say to another, “Let’s pop off this road trip with some great music and good vibes!”

23. Ignite

This word conveys the idea of starting something with intensity or setting it on fire metaphorically. It implies a powerful and impactful beginning.

For example, a motivational speaker might say, “Ignite your passion and start pursuing your dreams.”
In a discussion about a new product launch, someone might say, “We need to ignite the market with our innovative features and design.”
A coach might inspire their team by saying, “Let’s ignite the game with our energy and determination.”

24. Activate

This term is often used in a technical or functional context, referring to starting or turning on a system or process. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate starting or initiating something.

For instance, a fitness instructor might say, “Activate your core muscles before starting the exercise.”
In a conversation about a new project, someone might say, “We need to activate our team and start working on it.”
A friend might encourage another to start a healthy habit by saying, “Activate your morning routine with a nutritious breakfast.”

25. Embark on

This phrase is often used to indicate starting a new and exciting experience or undertaking. It implies the beginning of a journey or a new phase.

For example, a traveler might say, “I’m about to embark on a solo backpacking trip around the world.”
In a conversation about a new business venture, someone might say, “We are ready to embark on this entrepreneurial journey together.”
A person discussing personal growth might say, “I’m ready to embark on a new chapter of self-discovery and self-improvement.”

26. Hit the ground running

This phrase means to start a task or project quickly and energetically, without hesitation or delay.

For example, a manager might tell a new employee, “We need you to hit the ground running and start working on this project right away.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “We want to score early and hit the ground running in this game.”
A team leader might encourage their colleagues by saying, “Let’s hit the ground running and make this a productive week.”

27. Get things rolling

This phrase means to initiate or start something, usually a process or activity.

For instance, a project manager might say, “Let’s have a quick meeting to get things rolling on this new project.”
In a social setting, someone might suggest, “Let’s order some appetizers to get things rolling.”
A team member might ask, “Can you help me get things rolling by providing the necessary resources?”

28. Set the wheels in motion

This phrase means to start or initiate a plan or action, often with the intention of achieving a specific goal.

For example, a business owner might say, “We need to set the wheels in motion for our new marketing campaign.”
In a political context, a leader might declare, “Our goal is to set the wheels in motion for positive change.”
A project manager might ask, “Are we ready to set the wheels in motion and start implementing the new system?”

29. Break the ice

This phrase means to initiate or start a conversation or social interaction in order to make others feel more comfortable or at ease.

For instance, at a networking event, someone might say, “Let’s break the ice by introducing ourselves and sharing what we do.”
In a social gathering, a host might suggest a game or activity to break the ice and encourage conversation.
A shy person might ask for help to break the ice by saying, “Can you introduce me to someone? I’m not good at starting conversations.”

30. Get the gears turning

This phrase means to start or initiate a thought process or action, often in order to solve a problem or make progress.

For example, a team leader might say, “Let’s have a brainstorming session to get the gears turning on this project.”
In a creative context, an artist might say, “I need to do some warm-up exercises to get the gears turning before I start painting.”
A teacher might encourage their students by saying, “You all have great ideas, so let’s get the gears turning and come up with some solutions.”

31. Kicked off

To begin or initiate something. “Kicked off” is a casual slang term often used to describe the start of an event or activity.

For example, “The party kicked off with a live band playing.”
In a sports context, a commentator might say, “The game kicked off with a strong start from the home team.”
A person discussing a project might say, “We’re ready to kick off the new campaign tomorrow.”

32. Launched

To start or initiate something, often referring to the beginning of a project or endeavor. “Launched” implies a deliberate and planned start.

For instance, “The company launched a new product line yesterday.”
In a discussion about space exploration, one might say, “NASA launched a new satellite into orbit.”
A person describing a career change might say, “I launched my own business after years of working in the corporate world.”

33. Commenced

To begin or start something in a formal or official manner. “Commenced” is a more formal term for starting an activity or event.

For example, “The meeting commenced with an opening statement from the CEO.”
In a graduation ceremony, a speaker might announce, “The commencement exercises will now begin.”
A person describing the start of a legal process might say, “The trial is set to commence next week.”

34. Initiated

To start or begin something, often with a sense of purpose or intention. “Initiated” implies a deliberate and planned start, often associated with a specific action or process.

For instance, “She initiated a conversation with the new employee.”
In a discussion about a new program, one might say, “The company initiated a training initiative to improve employee skills.”
A person describing a relationship might say, “He initiated the first date by asking her out.”

35. Got the ball rolling

To start or initiate something, often used when referring to the beginning of a process or activity. “Got the ball rolling” implies taking the first step or action to start something.

For example, “She got the ball rolling by organizing a meeting to discuss the project.”
In a group project, a team member might say, “Let’s get the ball rolling by assigning tasks to each member.”
A person describing a fundraising campaign might say, “We need someone to get the ball rolling by making the first donation.”

36. Sparked

This term refers to the act of starting something or causing something to begin. It can be used in various contexts to describe the beginning of an event, conversation, or idea.

For example, “Their conversation sparked a heated debate.”
In a discussion about a new business venture, someone might say, “We need a strong marketing campaign to spark interest.”
A person might use this term to describe their motivation to start a new project, saying, “I was sparked by a creative idea that I couldn’t ignore.”

37. Triggered

This slang term is often used to describe an intense emotional response or reaction to something. It implies that something has caused a strong negative reaction or brought up past traumas or sensitive topics.

For instance, “His comment about her weight triggered her insecurities.”
In a discussion about controversial topics, someone might say, “Be careful not to say anything that could trigger people.”
A person might use this term to describe their own emotional response, saying, “Seeing that movie triggered memories of my childhood.”

38. Ignited

To ignite something means to set it on fire or cause it to start burning. In slang terms, it can be used metaphorically to describe the act of starting or beginning something, often with enthusiasm or passion.

For example, “Her speech ignited a fire in the audience.”
In a conversation about personal growth, someone might say, “Finding my passion ignited a sense of purpose in my life.”
A person might use this term to describe their motivation to take action, saying, “The injustice I witnessed ignited a desire for change.”

39. Activated

This slang term is often used to describe the act of starting or initiating a process or action. It implies that someone or something has been activated or turned on to begin functioning.

For instance, “She activated the alarm system before leaving the house.”
In a discussion about technology, someone might say, “I activated the new software to test its features.”
A person might use this term to describe their own readiness to start a task, saying, “I’m activated and ready to tackle this project.”

40. Instigated

To instigate means to deliberately start or initiate something, often with the intention of causing a reaction or conflict. It implies that someone is purposefully provoking or stirring up a situation.

For example, “He instigated a fight by insulting the other person.”
In a discussion about political unrest, someone might say, “The protest was instigated by a controversial government decision.”
A person might use this term to describe their role in starting a playful argument, saying, “I instigated a friendly competition among my friends.”

41. Inaugurated

To inaugurate something means to formally start or initiate it. This term is often used in formal or official contexts.

For example, “The president inaugurated the new building with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.”
In a business setting, someone might say, “We will be inaugurating our new product line next month.”
A person discussing a new project might say, “We are excited to inaugurate this initiative and see it through to success.”

42. Picked up

To pick up something means to start doing or engaging in it. This term is often used to describe the beginning of an action or activity.

For instance, “I picked up playing the guitar when I was in high school.”
In a conversation about hobbies, someone might say, “I recently picked up painting as a way to relax.”
A person discussing a new habit might say, “I’ve picked up running as a way to stay active.”

43. Set out

To set out means to start or begin a journey, task, or endeavor. This term often implies a sense of purpose or intention.

For example, “We set out on our road trip early in the morning.”
In a discussion about a new project, someone might say, “We set out to create a product that would revolutionize the industry.”
A person talking about personal goals might say, “I’ve set out to read at least one book per month this year.”

44. Embarked

To embark means to start or begin a journey, mission, or new venture. This term often conveys a sense of excitement or anticipation.

For instance, “They embarked on a quest to find the hidden treasure.”
In a conversation about career changes, someone might say, “I’ve embarked on a new path in the field of design.”
A person discussing a new business venture might say, “We’ve embarked on a mission to provide sustainable products to our customers.”

45. Put into motion

To put into motion means to start or initiate a process or action. This term often implies taking the necessary steps to make something happen.

For example, “They put their plan into motion and started working towards their goal.”
In a discussion about organizational changes, someone might say, “The new CEO put a series of reforms into motion.”
A person talking about a new project might say, “We’ve put our ideas into motion and are excited to see the results.”

46. Got going

This phrase means to begin or initiate something. It is often used to describe the act of starting a task or activity.

For example, “I got going on my homework as soon as I got home.”
In a conversation about a project, someone might say, “Let’s get going on this and finish it by the end of the week.”
A coach might motivate their team by saying, “It’s time to get going and give it your all on the field.”

47. Got things rolling

This phrase means to initiate or start something. It is often used to describe the act of beginning a process or getting things started.

For instance, “I got things rolling by sending out the meeting invitations.”
In a discussion about event planning, someone might say, “We need to get things rolling and start organizing the details.”
A project manager might say, “Let’s get things rolling by assigning tasks to each team member.”

48. Took off

This phrase means to begin or start something with great momentum or success. It is often used to describe the act of starting a venture or activity that quickly gains popularity or progress.

For example, “The new restaurant took off and became a local favorite.”
In a conversation about a business, someone might say, “Once our marketing campaign took off, sales skyrocketed.”
A musician might say, “My career really took off after I released my first album.”

49. Got cracking

This phrase means to begin or start something with urgency or determination. It is often used to describe the act of starting a task or activity promptly.

For instance, “We need to get cracking on this project to meet the deadline.”
In a discussion about productivity, someone might say, “I always get cracking on my work first thing in the morning.”
A coach might say to their team, “Time to get cracking and give it your best effort on the field.”

50. Got things underway

This phrase means to initiate or start something. It is often used to describe the act of beginning a process or getting things started.

For example, “We got things underway by setting up the equipment.”
In a conversation about event planning, someone might say, “Let’s get things underway by welcoming the guests.”
A project manager might say, “We need to get things underway by discussing the project timeline.”

51. Got the show on the road

This phrase means to begin or initiate an activity or event. It is often used to describe the action of starting something in a lively or energetic manner.

For example, “We got the show on the road with a high-energy dance number.”
In a discussion about organizing an event, someone might say, “Let’s get the show on the road and start setting up.”
A team leader might motivate their colleagues by saying, “It’s time to get the show on the road and make things happen!”

52. Got the party started

This phrase means to begin a party or social gathering in a lively and energetic manner. It implies that the person or group responsible for starting the party created a fun and exciting atmosphere.

For instance, “The DJ got the party started with an upbeat song.”
A friend might say, “I’ll bring the snacks and drinks to get the party started.”
At a wedding, the couple might say, “Let’s get the party started with our first dance!”

53. Open the floodgates

This phrase is used to describe the action of starting or initiating a process or event that results in a sudden and overwhelming influx or release of something.

For example, “The announcement of the new product opened the floodgates of customer inquiries.”
In a discussion about a controversial topic, someone might say, “His statement opened the floodgates of debate.”
A politician might warn, “Be careful with your words, as they can open the floodgates of public criticism.”

54. Start off

This phrase simply means to begin or initiate something. It is a straightforward and commonly used expression.

For instance, “Let’s start off the meeting with a quick introduction.”
In a conversation about a project, someone might suggest, “We should start off by making a plan.”
A teacher might instruct their students, “Start off by reading the first chapter of the textbook.”

55. Commence proceedings

This phrase is often used in formal or official settings to indicate the start of a meeting, event, or legal proceedings.

For example, “The judge entered the courtroom and announced, ‘Let the proceedings commence.'”
In a business setting, someone might say, “Before we commence the proceedings, I’d like to thank everyone for being here.”
At a graduation ceremony, the speaker might declare, “Ladies and gentlemen, let the commencement proceedings begin!”

56. Kickstart

To start or initiate something. “Kickstart” often implies giving something a boost or getting it started with energy or enthusiasm.

For example, “Let’s kickstart this project with a brainstorming session.”
A motivational speaker might say, “It’s time to kickstart your goals and take action.”
Someone might encourage a friend by saying, “You can do it! Kickstart your fitness journey today.”

57. Fire the starting gun

To officially start an event or activity. “Fire the starting gun” is a metaphorical phrase often used in the context of races or competitions.

For instance, “The referee fired the starting gun, and the race began.”
A sports commentator might say, “The teams are ready to go. All we need is to fire the starting gun.”
Someone might use this phrase figuratively and say, “Let’s fire the starting gun on this new project and get things moving.”

58. Spring into action

To start taking action or doing something quickly and energetically. “Spring into action” suggests a sudden burst of activity or readiness to begin.

For example, “When the alarm goes off, we need to spring into action and evacuate.”
A coach might say, “As soon as the ball is in play, spring into action and give it your all.”
Someone might encourage a friend by saying, “Don’t hesitate, spring into action and chase your dreams.”

59. Take the plunge

To make a bold or daring decision to start or try something new. “Take the plunge” often implies a sense of risk or uncertainty, but also excitement and anticipation.

For instance, “After years of saving, they finally took the plunge and bought their dream house.”
A motivational speaker might say, “Don’t be afraid to take the plunge and pursue your passions.”
Someone might encourage a friend by saying, “You’ve been talking about it for a while. It’s time to take the plunge and start your own business.”

60. Open up shop

To begin operating a business or establishment. “Open up shop” is a colloquial expression that can be used metaphorically to mean starting any kind of venture or activity.

For example, “After months of planning, they finally opened up shop and started selling their handmade crafts.”
A business owner might say, “It’s time to open up shop and offer our services to the community.”
Someone might use this phrase figuratively and say, “Let’s open up shop and start this meeting.”

61. Turn the key

This phrase is often used to describe starting a process or activity, often involving machinery or equipment. It can also be used metaphorically to mean starting something figurative or symbolic.

For example, “Before you can drive the car, you need to turn the key in the ignition.”
In a discussion about launching a new project, someone might say, “Let’s turn the key and get this thing started.”
When describing the beginning of a relationship, someone might say, “We really turned the key on our romance last night.”

62. Light the fuse

This phrase is often used to describe starting something explosive or exciting. It can also be used metaphorically to mean starting or initiating a process or action.

For instance, “He lit the fuse and the fireworks exploded in a burst of color.”
In a discussion about a heated argument, someone might say, “She really knows how to light the fuse and get people riled up.”
When describing the start of a party or event, someone might say, “The DJ really knows how to light the fuse and get the crowd dancing.”

63. Start the ball rolling

This phrase is often used to describe starting a project or activity that involves multiple people or steps. It can also be used metaphorically to mean initiating any kind of action or process.

For example, “Let’s start the ball rolling by assigning tasks to each team member.”
In a discussion about organizing an event, someone might say, “We need a leader who can start the ball rolling and keep everyone on track.”
When describing the beginning of a conversation or negotiation, someone might say, “I’ll start the ball rolling by making an opening offer.”

64. Fire off

This phrase is often used to describe quickly sending or launching something, such as a message or a weapon. It can also be used metaphorically to mean starting or initiating something quickly and decisively.

For instance, “He fired off an email to the entire team.”
In a discussion about a quick response, someone might say, “She can really fire off a witty comeback.”
When describing the start of a race, someone might say, “The athletes fired off the starting gun and sprinted towards the finish line.”

65. Set sail

This phrase is often used to describe starting a voyage or embarking on a new adventure. It is commonly associated with sailing, but can also be used metaphorically to mean starting any kind of journey or endeavor.

For example, “They set sail on a month-long cruise around the world.”
In a discussion about starting a new business, someone might say, “It’s time to set sail and see where this venture takes us.”
When describing the beginning of a vacation, someone might say, “We set sail for the beach and left all our worries behind.”