Loslegen

Loslegen is a German verb meaning to begin or to get going, especially to start doing something with energy or immediacy. It is a separable-prefix verb formed from los- and legen (to lay). The prefix los- adds a sense of action started or set in motion, so loslegen conveys starting an activity, project, or performance rather than merely planning it.

Usage and forms: In standard present tense, the prefix is separated, as in Wir legen gleich los. The infinitive is loslegen, and the past participle is losgelegt, used in perfect constructions (Wir haben losgelegt). The simple past is legte los. Imperatives are Legt los! or Legen Sie los! depending on formality. In subordinate clauses, the prefix typically remains attached to the verb’s stem before the end of the clause (e.g., Er sagte, dass er gleich loslegen werde). Loslegen is used with a wide range of activities, from work tasks to sports events.

Contexts and nuance: The expression is common in informal and business contexts, signaling the moment to start or to dive into an activity without delay. It can describe initiating a project, beginning a performance, or commencing an action. Related phrases include mit dem Projekt loslegen or jetzt sofort loslegen. Synonyms and closely related terms include beginnen, starten, anfangen, and durchstarten, each with slightly different emphasis on initiation, pace, or momentum.