in full swing

*in full swing

 and *in high gear

Fig. at the peak of activity; moving fast or efficiently. (*Typically: be ~; move [into] ~; get [into] ~.) In the summer months, things really get into full swing around here. We go skiing in the mountains each winter. Things are in high gear there in November.

See also: full, swing

in full swing

Also, in full cry. In full operation, at the highest level of activity. For example, After the strike it would be some time before production was in full swing, or His supporters were out in full cry. The first expression, dating from the mid-1800s, alludes to the vigorous movement of a swinging body. The second employs full cry in the sense of "vigorous pursuit," a usage dating from the late 1500s that may be dying out.

See also: full, swing

in full swing

COMMON If something is in full swing, it is operating fully or has already been happening for some time, rather than being in its early stages. Twelve days after the hurricane, officials say recovery efforts are at last in full swing. While I was in Dieppe, a national dog show and a jazz festival were in full swing. Note: You can also say that something gets into full swing. As we left, the St Patrick's Day celebrations were getting into full swing in Donegall Place.

See also: full, swing

in full swing

At the highest level of activity or operation.

See also: full, swing