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Region: General | Usage example: Ready, set, go—the race is on.

Ready, set, go

Meaning

A command to begin immediately.

Usage

Used when initiating activity.

Origin & History

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

Sports start call.

Used widely in sports and everyday racing contexts.

Related Idioms

Ready, fire, aim

Act impulsively before planning.

Spring into action

Respond immediately.

Get into gear

Begin working effectively after a slow start.

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.