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Region: General | Usage example: Set up the stage in one, two, three.

One, two, three

Meaning

Something done quickly and easily.

Usage

Used to emphasize speed or simplicity.

Origin & History

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

Counting to begin actions.

Used since early 20th century.

Related Idioms

Six of one, half a dozen of the other

Two alternatives are essentially the same.

Three sheets to the wind

Extremely drunk.

Rip the band-aid off

Do something unpleasant quickly to avoid prolonging it.

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.