starting gate

A mechanical device used in horse racing or other sports to ensure a fair start by releasing competitors simultaneously; also used figuratively to refer to the beginning of a race or competition.

• 🇪🇸Dispositivo o estructura que se utiliza en carreras u otros deportes para garantizar un comienzo justo, liberando a los participantes al mismo tiempo; también se usa en sentido figurado para referirse al punto de partida o inicio de una competición o proceso.

1. Racing starting mechanism B2 formal

   A mechanical barrier or gate used at the start of a race (especially for horses, dogs, or cars) to ensure a fair and simultaneous start.

   • The horses were loaded into the starting gate before the race began.
   • The starting gate malfunctioned, causing a delay in the race.
   • The driver revved his engine as the starting gate lifted.

   🇪🇸compuerta de salida

2. Beginning of a process B2 informal

   The initial point or phase of an activity, project, or journey.

   • We are at the starting gate of a new business venture.
   • The team is ready at the starting gate for the product launch.
   • He stood at the starting gate of his career, full of ambition.

   🇪🇸punto de partida