Synonyms

ahead of the game

Idioms

In a position of advantage, especially financially; succeeding or winning. For example, If we can sell 2,000 units of this product by next month, we'll be well ahead of the game. This idiom uses ahead of in the sense of “in advance of,” a usage dating from the mid-1700s, and transfers success in gambling (the game) to winning in other areas. Also see come out ahead.

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

The average retirement savings for someone age 35 to 44 is $141,500, so you’re ahead of the game.

From MarketWatch • May 14, 2026

The PM insisted the government had been "ahead of the game" in its focus on the cost-of-living.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

The odds will fluctuate in the days ahead of the game.

From Los Angeles Times • Jan. 25, 2026

Because technology can be copied, companies have to stay ahead of the game.

From Barron's • Jan. 16, 2026

No, I need to look one step ahead of the game.

From "The Hunger Games" by Suzanne Collins

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023