ahead of the game
Already in front
Ahead of the game means in an advantageous position, having made more progress than expected or required.
Someone ahead of the game has anticipated challenges or prepared in advance: If you study now, you'll be ahead of the game when exams come.
The phrase evokes competition where early leads matter.
- superiorityHigher rank or quality
- proficiencySkilled performance level
- foresightAbility to anticipate futures
- forward thinkingAnticipating future needs
- preparationArranging things in advance
preemptive · jump start · anticipation · dominance · skillfulness · readiness · advantage · leg up · flexibility · planning · outperforming · proactive · pioneering · cutting edge · edge · first mover · early adopter · leadership
ahead of the gamebehind the eight ball
In a difficult position
behind schedule · running late · on the back foot · falling behind · behind the times
ahead of the gamebehind the curve
Not current with trends
behind the eight ball · trailing · losing ground · bringing up the rear · lagging behind
ahead, game, head, heads, headed, heading, headless, header, games