measure the drapes

Assume the outcome

To measure the drapes is to act as though you've already secured a position or outcome that hasn't been decided yet—like someone measuring a new office's windows for curtains before they've been hired.

The phrase implies premature confidence bordering on presumption: The candidate was already measuring the drapes in the Oval Office before a single vote was cast.

Often used critically to suggest someone is getting ahead of themselves.

presumptuous

overconfident

Excessively sure of oneself

entitled · assuming · forward · ambitious · cocky · brash · pushy · impertinent · hasty · jumping the gun

anticipatory

expectant

Awaiting something foreseen

planning · prospective · confident · enthusiastic · excited · preparing · ready · wishful thinking

Opposites
presumption vs. caution

measure the drapeshedge one's bets

Reduce risk by diversifying

hold off · wait and see · hold one's horses · stay humble · play it safe

overconfidence vs. doubt

measure the drapessecond-guess

Question a decision afterward

hedge · knock on wood

Family

measure, drapes, measures, measured, measuring, measurement, measurements, measurable, immeasurable

Familiarity
Top 500,000
Profile
Timeless · Everyday, not technical · Rated G