Teed Up: Definition, Meaning and Origin

Last Updated on
June 11, 2023

The idiom "teed up" generally signifies preparing something or making it ready for execution. People use this term metaphorically to indicate the act of making something ready or arranging a situation for easy handling.

In short:

"Teed up" means setting something up for action or making it ready for implementation.

What Does "Teed Up" Mean?

The phrase implies the act of preparing or arranging for something to happen, similar to how a golfer would prepare for a shot by placing the ball on a tee. For example, you might tee up a meeting or a proposal, essentially making all necessary preparations for it to proceed smoothly.

Let's explore its core meanings:

  • It usually refers to making preparations for something to occur.
  • It can metaphorically signify setting up a situation for an easy resolution or accomplishment.
  • While it is often used informally, it can also be used in formal settings, such as in business and professional contexts.

Where Does "Teed Up" Come From?

The term "teed up" originates from the sport of golf, where it refers to the act of placing the golf ball on a small stand, called a tee, before striking it. The term has since been adopted metaphorically in various contexts to imply readiness or preparation.

Historical Example

"The equipment at the Hook of Holland was ' teed up ' on a tower, as Jones put it, to maximize range and was photographed from 150 feet on 24 May."

-Dieppe Revisited A Documentary Investigation, 1993

10 Examples of "Teed Up" in Sentences

Here are some examples of using the idiom in sentences:

  • Despite the product being currently out of range, the production team has teed up a strategy to broaden its availability across the country.
  • The marketing team has teed up an incredible campaign for the product launch.
  • The teacher teed up the topic, making it easier for students to understand.
  • The meeting was perfectly teed up, ensuring a productive session.
  • Before making his argument, the lawyer had his points thoroughly teed up.
  • The marketing plan has been teed up to be in line with the company's environmental sustainability goals.
  • It is the CEO's prerogative to make the final decision, but the board has already teed up a solid proposal for consideration.
  • The court's recent ruling has teed up to set a precedent for future decisions on similar cases.
  • The company has teed up a mentorship program to capitalize on the senior employees' experience and foster talent development.
  • She teed up a series of questions for the interview.

Examples of "Teed Up" in Pop Culture

The phrase "teed up" occasionally appears in pop culture, often referring to the idea of preparation or readiness.

Let's examine some examples:

  • "So now we have all the business units and the crossfunctional teams stalled. It will be hard to get this project teed up again. Pie." —Speaking Up: Surviving Executive Presentations by Frederick Gilbert, 2013
  • "Though the cost of Project Apollo eventually exceeded $25 billion, the intense federal concentration on space exploration also teed up the technology-based economy the United States enjoys today..." —American Moonshot: John F. Kennedy and the Great Space Race by Douglas Brinkley, 2019

Other/Different Ways to Say "Teed Up"

There are numerous alternative expressions that convey a similar meaning to "teed up."

Here are some of them:

  • Prepared
  • Ready
  • Set up
  • Primed
  • Arranged

10 Frequently Asked Questions About "Teed Up":

  • What does "teed up" mean?

"Teed up" generally refers to the act of making something ready for execution or preparing for something to happen.

  • How can I use "teed up" in a sentence?

You can use "teed up" to indicate readiness or preparation. For example, "The marketing team teed up an excellent campaign."

  • Where does the idiom "teed up" come from?

The term originates from the sport of golf, where it refers to the act of placing the ball on a tee before striking it.

  • Is "teed up" a formal term?

"Teed up" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.

  • Does "teed up" only refer to sports or golf?

No, while it originated in golf, the term has been metaphorically extended to various contexts to denote readiness or preparation.

  • Is "teed up" a positive term?

It's neutral, denoting the state of being prepared or ready, which can be perceived as positive in contexts that value preparation and readiness.

  • Can "teed up" be used to refer to physical preparation?

Yes, it can refer to both physical and metaphorical preparation. For instance, "teed up" could refer to preparing a meal or setting up equipment.

  • Is it appropriate to use "teed up" in professional writing?

Yes, the term can be used in professional or academic writing to denote preparation or readiness.

  • Does "teed up" imply a level of expertise?

Not necessarily. While being well-prepared can imply expertise, the term itself doesn't inherently denote any level of skill or proficiency.

  • Can "teed up" be used to describe people?

Yes, "teed up" can be used to describe people when they are prepared or ready for a specific task or event.

Final Thoughts About "Teed Up"

The idiom "teed up" signifies readiness or preparation for a particular task, event, or situation. Originating in the sport of golf, it has found broad use in a range of contexts.

Here's a quick recap:

  • The term denotes readiness or preparation, and it can refer to both physical and metaphorical setups.
  • The phrase originates from golf but has extended to various contexts.
  • The term can be used in both formal and informal contexts and doesn't inherently imply any level of expertise.

This versatile idiom, with its roots in the precise, deliberate world of golf, beautifully captures the importance of readiness and preparation. Whether it's an event, a task, or an opportunity, having things "teed up" ensures that we're well-prepared and poised for success.

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