get off to a false start

get off to a false start

To make a failed, impaired, or underdeveloped beginning at something. Taken from racing, when a participant begins before the starting signal has been given. The small nation has gotten off to a few false starts since gaining independence, but it is now starting to find some economic and political stability. We knew the company was getting off to a false start, but unfortunately, there was no way to put things on hold once the wheels were in motion.
See also: false, get, off, start
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.
See also:
  • be off to a false start
  • hurler on the ditch
  • go out for
  • go out for (something)
  • living impaired
  • third world
  • party to
  • visually impaired
  • sit in on (something)
  • crying need