false start
A 'false start' describes an initial attempt to begin an activity that is prematurely halted or needs to be redone.
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Definition
B2Sports
(technical)A violation where an athlete begins moving before the official start signal.
Example
- The runner was disqualified for a false start.
- In American football, a false start by the offensive line results in a penalty.
B2General
An unsuccessful attempt to begin an activity or project, requiring it to be restarted.
Example
- The project had a false start due to a lack of proper planning.
- After a false start, she finally launched her new business successfully.
C1Linguistics
(technical)An instance where someone begins to speak but then stops and starts again, often to correct themselves.
Example
- The speaker had a false start before delivering his main points.
- False starts are common in spontaneous conversations.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "false start":
starting gatestarting signalflying startstart onflag on the playkick starttime faultstarting gunjump the gun