beat (one) to the punch

beat (one) to the punch

To do or obtain something before someone else does. The phrase is thought to have originated from boxing. Primarily heard in US. I was going to suggest that idea to the boss today, but unfortunately one of my co-workers beat me to the punch.

See also: beat, punch

beat someone to the punch

 and beat someone to the draw

Fig. to do something before someone else does it. I wanted to have the new car, but Sally beat me to the punch. I planned to write a book about using the new software program, but someone else beat me to the draw.

See also: beat, punch

beat someone to the punch

anticipate or forestall someone's actions.

See also: beat, punch, someone