1303 On a roll - English Idioms

Explanation

Experiencing a continuous period of success, luck, progress, or high productivity.

Origin

Most likely originates from gambling, particularly dice games like craps.
A roll is a throw of the dice. Being on a roll meant having a lucky streak of successful throws, winning repeatedly.
The meaning expanded to describe any period of sustained success or positive momentum in various activities (work, sports, creative endeavors, etc.).

Alternatives

Slang/Informal:

Killing it
Smashing it (UK)
In the zone
On fire (Performing exceptionally well)
Hot / Streaking (Having a run of success, esp. sports/gambling)
Crushing it
Making bank (If success is financial)

Vulgar/Emphatic:

On a fucking roll
Kicking ass / Kicking butt
Absolutely dominating

Milder:

Experiencing continued success
Doing very well
Having a successful run
Performing excellently
Making great progress

Situational Appropriateness

Informal to semi-formal.
Suitable for celebrating positive momentum in work, sports, hobbies, creative projects, etc.

Misunderstanding Warnings

Could potentially be misunderstood literally (e.g., rolling down a hill). Context (success, progress) usually makes the meaning clear.

Examples

The sales team is really on a roll this month; they've exceeded all targets.
She answered five questions correctly in a row – she's on a roll!
I wrote three chapters today! I'm totally on a roll.
Our basketball team has won six consecutive games; they're on a roll.

Dialogue

Colleague A: Morning! You seem really productive today.

Colleague B: I am! Finished the report, drafted the proposal, and cleared my inbox. I'm definitely on a roll!

Colleague A: Nice! Can you channel some of that energy over here?

Response Patterns

Congratulations/Encouragement: That's awesome! / Keep it up! / Don't stop now!
Agreement/Acknowledgement: Yeah, things are going really well! / I know, right?
Positive commentary: Nice! / Impressive!
Mild envy (joking): Wish I was on a roll like that!

Common Follow-up Questions/Actions

After someone says they (or someone else) are on a roll:

Ask for details: That's great! What else have you accomplished?
Express hope for continuation: Long may it last! / Hope the streak continues!
Celebrate: You should celebrate!
In sports: Who do they play next?

Conversation Starter

No. Describes a current state of success or productivity.

Intonation

Main stress falls on roll.
Wow, you're really on a ROLL!
Often said with enthusiasm, admiration, or excitement.

Generation Differences

Widely used and understood. Slang alternatives like killing it, smashing it, or crushing it are popular, especially among younger generations.

Regional Variations

Common in all English-speaking regions. Smashing it is distinctively British.

Hit rock bottom

🎲 Come up roses

[1303] On a roll