head start
2018.10.17
Meaning:
Imagine you are in a race with a small child. Maybe you let the child start first. In that case, you gave the child a head start. A head start is a small advantage (that is, a small bit of extra help) in a race or competition. Giving a head start has a positive nuance because we usually give head starts to make competition fair. But sometimes getting or having a head start can have a negative nuance. For example, ‘I had no chance of getting that job. My competitor had a big head start; his father is the boss’s best friend.’
Example:
A: Let’s race and see who can make the most gyoza in 10 minutes!
B: Mmm…you’re too good at this. Give me a head start!
A: Ok – here. You can have 2 of my finished gyoza: that’s a pretty good head start. Now – ready, set, let’s go!
Talking Point(s):
How can you give your child a head start in life?
大人からの英会話getgo 西船橋・荻窪・津田沼・本八幡