der Startschuss
Translation
starting shot, starting signal, go-ahead
Examples
Der Startschuss für das Rennen fiel pünktlich.
The starting shot for the race was fired on time.
Das war der Startschuss für ein neues Projekt.
That was the go-ahead for a new project.
Grammar Patterns
the starting shot for sth. is fired. The starting shot for the marathon was fired at 9 a.m.
to give the go-ahead for sth. The mayor gave the go-ahead for the festival.
Similar Words
Synonyms: Startsignal (starting signal), Anpfiff (kick-off whistle), Beginn (beginning)
Etymology
From 'Start' (start) and 'Schuss' (shot). Literally a 'start shot'.
Memory Tips
Imagine a race where a 'shot' (Schuss) from a pistol signals the 'start'. Also used figuratively.