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Synonyms

ahead of the game

Idioms  
  1. 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.

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"It's looking good so far. I'm nervous. Hopefully they do it this time," Velez said ahead of the game.

From Barron's Jun. 8, 2026

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

From Los Angeles Times Jan. 25, 2026

The Raiders placed their two best players, tight end Brock Bowers and defensive end Maxx Crosby, on injured reserve ahead of the game.

From The Wall Street Journal Dec. 29, 2025

“You’re way ahead of the game if you did,” said Anora Gaudiano, a New York City-based certified financial planner.

From MarketWatch Dec. 24, 2025

How were they going to stay ahead of the game if the boys had free lemonade to sell?

From "The Lemonade War" by Jacqueline Davies

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