be under way

To be currently happening or in progress. When we arrived, the movie was already under way, so we decided to wait for a later viewing. Negotiations to end the strike are under way, with both sides hoping to reach a deal with the end of the week. We have alerted the public to the safety issues with the car seat, and a recall is underway.

get under way

1. To proceed or begin to progress; to start. OK, everyone, let's get under way—you have an hour to complete the exam. I'm sure you can ask your question once the lecture gets under way. Will negotiations to end the strike ever get under way?

2. To cause something to proceed or begin to progress; to start something. In this usage, a noun or pronoun is used between "get" and "under." We're just waiting for Martha before we get the meeting under way. They'll be getting the concert under way in about an hour, so don't be late! We need to alert the public to the safety issues with the car seat and get a recall under way.

be under ˈway

have started and be now progressing or taking place: A major search is under way to find the escaped prisoners. ♢ Negotiations are under way to resolve the dispute.