beating to the punch
- preemptiveActing to forestall
- anticipateExpect beforehand
- quickMoving with speed
- outmaneuverDefeat through superior tactics
- firstPosition number one
strike · swift · ahead · timing · fast · cunning · surprise · ambush · steal · snatch · intercept · hustle · edge · jump · outpace · seize · moment · decisive
timing/initiative
beating to the puncharriving late
Coming after expected time
missing the boat · lagging behind · trailing · dragging one's feet · hesitating