starting block: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B2Neutral; common in sports commentary, everyday metaphors, and business/project planning.
Quick answer
What does “starting block” mean?
A device, typically a pair of angled blocks, used by runners in a race to brace their feet at the start, allowing for a powerful push-off.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A device, typically a pair of angled blocks, used by runners in a race to brace their feet at the start, allowing for a powerful push-off.
The initial position, point, or conditions from which any activity, process, or project begins; a metaphorical point of departure.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant lexical difference. In sports contexts, both varieties use the plural 'starting blocks' more frequently when referring to the physical equipment.
Connotations
Identical connotations in both varieties.
Frequency
Slightly higher frequency in American English in business/media metaphors (e.g., 'get a project out of the starting blocks').
Grammar
How to Use “starting block” in a Sentence
VERB + starting block: set, adjust, explode fromPREP + starting block: in the ~, out of the ~, from the ~Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Used to describe the initial phase of a project or initiative. 'We need to get this product out of the starting blocks by Q1.'
Academic
Used metaphorically in discussions of historical events, theories, or research. 'Darwin's work served as the starting block for modern evolutionary biology.'
Everyday
Used to talk about beginning any task or activity. 'I'm just in the starting blocks with my spring cleaning.'
Technical
Refers specifically to the regulated equipment used in track and field athletics.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “starting block”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “starting block”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “starting block”
- Using the singular 'starting block' when the plural 'starting blocks' is more accurate for the physical equipment (e.g., 'He set his feet in the starting blocks').
- Confusing 'starting block' with 'block start' (the latter is a noun phrase for the action).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
In sports commentary and description, the plural 'starting blocks' is far more common because the equipment consists of two blocks. The singular 'a starting block' can refer to one unit of the pair or be used metaphorically.
No, 'starting block' is exclusively a noun. The related verb phrase is 'to start from the blocks'.
They are often synonymous in metaphor. However, 'starting block' more strongly implies a prepared, bracing position for a dynamic or competitive beginning, while 'starting point' is more general and neutral.
It originates from track and field, where the initial push from the blocks is crucial for momentum. The idiom effectively conveys the idea of a quick, powerful, and decisive beginning to any endeavour.
A device, typically a pair of angled blocks, used by runners in a race to brace their feet at the start, allowing for a powerful push-off.
Starting block is usually neutral; common in sports commentary, everyday metaphors, and business/project planning. in register.
Starting block: in British English it is pronounced /ˈstɑːtɪŋ ˌblɒk/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈstɑːrtɪŋ ˌblɑːk/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “out of the starting blocks”
- “a false start out of the starting blocks”
- “slow out of the starting blocks”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a BLOCK you put your foot on to START a race. It's your physical STARTING BLOCK.
Conceptual Metaphor
BEGINNING A TASK IS STARTING A RACE; PROGRESS IS FORWARD MOTION FROM A FIXED POINT.
Practice
Quiz
In a business context, what does 'getting out of the starting blocks' typically mean?