get the jump on

get the jump on (someone or something)

To gain an advantage over someone or something, typically by doing something early or ahead of others. The senator got the jump on the challenger by visiting the state three times before his opponent managed to make an appearance. I'm determined to get the jump on my Christmas shopping this year, so that I'm not scrambling at the last minute for a change. I think we'll get the jump on the defense if we run this play next.

See also: get, jump, on

Farlex Dictionary of Idioms. © 2024 Farlex, Inc, all rights reserved.

get (or have) the jump on

get (or have) an advantage over someone as a result of your prompt action. North American informal

1912 George Ade Knocking the Neighbors Rufus was sinfully Rich…his Family had drilled into him the low-down Habit of getting the Jump on the Other Fellow.

See also: get, jump, on

Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary © Farlex 2017