expression, godan verb (-ku)
gain momentum; pick up steam; get a boost
Used when an activity or situation starts to develop positive momentum, often after an initial push or trigger.
See also: 弾み (はずみ)
最初は緊張していたが、話し始めたら弾みがついてどんどん話せた。
I was nervous at first, but once I started talking I gained momentum and could speak more and more.
This project just isn't gaining traction.