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Region: US | Usage example: After the kickoff, we kept the ball rolling with weekly check-ins.

Keep the ball rolling

Meaning

Maintain momentum on an activity.

Usage

Used during ongoing projects or efforts.

Origin & History

Origin notes can vary by region and source; this page gives the commonly reported explanation and usage context.

Sports imagery from ball games.

Used in American sports columns since the 20th century.

Related Idioms

Keep your eye on the ball

Stay focused on the goal.

Get the ball rolling

Start a project or process.

Keep your nose to the grindstone

Work diligently without distraction.

More Idioms

Break the ice

To do or say something to relieve tension or get conversation going in a social situation.

Cut to the chase

Skip ahead to the most important or exciting part of something.

The ball is in your court

It is now your turn to take action or make a decision.

Throw in the towel

To concede defeat or admit a struggle isn't worth continuing.