Getting Started

to take a direct and determined approach to a difficult or unpleasant task

I know you don't like disciplining employees, but you've just got to grasp the nettle.

(of a person) to be physically or mentally ready to get something done

We have all the tools and supplies we need, so we're good to go.

to get ready for action by removing physical and mental obstacles

Clearing the decks before Christmas, that's my plan.

to start doing something in the way that was planned

It's about time they got this show on the road!

to learn from a failure, mistake, or unpleasant situation instead of feeling bad about it

There's nothing we can do about it now, we'll just have to put it down to experience.

to get ready to do hard work or tackle a serious challenge

With the deadline approaching, the team rolled up their sleeves and worked late into the night.

to devote one's time and energy to doing or finishing something one was nervous about

If you have been thinking about buying shares, now could be the time to take the plunge.

to start with small steps before tackling difficult tasks or challenges

Don't get ahead of yourself.You have to walk before you run.

from the point at which something began

I'm currently working on building this website from scratch.

to enjoy an experience as much as one can, due to the lack of previous opportunity

After being away for months, he planned a special weekend getaway to make up for lost time with his family.

a command given to the participants of a competition, particularly a race, to ready themselves

OK, everyone, on your marks—we're about to begin!

at the planning, preparing, or developing stage

Important new laws are already in the pipeline.

to properly begin doing something that one was neglecting

It's high time that Nahum got on the stick and found me a buyer for this place.

to start to do an activity, often in a way that is encouraging to others

I decided to set the ball rolling and got up to dance.

to start dealing with, understanding, or accepting something that is difficult

In the front of the van, Julie's still getting to grips with the gears and the brakes and the steering.