a slow start

phrase

: lack of success at first

Despite a slow start at the box office, the movie's popularity has increased steadily.

The team got off to a slow start this season but is playing well now.

Examples of a slow start in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Bryce Rainer got off to a slow start at the plate this season coming off of shoulder surgery but found his power stroke mid-year. — Keith Law, New York Times, 15 Sep. 2026

Making his return from last year’s operation, Mahomes shook off a slow start to complete 15-of-27 passes and two touchdowns with an interception. — Peter Sblendorio, New York Daily News, 15 Sep. 2026

After a slow start, the Chargers created optimism with a 3-0 win over Wheaton North. — Paul Johnson, Chicago Tribune, 15 Sep. 2026

The Breakers wanted tougher nonleague opponents, which has led to a slow start in the win column, but beware if quarterback Jack Hurst can get the passing game going. — Eric Sondheimer, Los Angeles Times, 7 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for a slow start

• counterpart
• apart
• depart
• flowchart
• forepart
• impart
• pushcart
• rampart
• redstart
• restart
• subpart
• sweetheart