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Region: US | Usage example: Right off the bat, the new engineer solved the bug.

Right off the bat

Meaning

Immediately, without delay.

Usage

Used to describe instant reactions or actions.

Origin & History

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

Baseball phrase for the moment the bat hits the ball.

Extended from baseball commentary in the early 1900s.

Related Idioms

Barking up the right tree

Pursuing the correct idea or person.

Right up your alley

Exactly suited to someone's skills or tastes.

Get off on the right foot

Start something well.

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.