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.
Excessively sure of oneself
- prematureOccurring before expected
- audaciousRecklessly or disrespectfully fearless
- boldCourageous and daring
- entitledHaving rightful claim
assuming · forward · ambitious · cocky · brash · pushy · impertinent · hasty
Awaiting something foreseen
- hopefulFeeling positive expectation
- optimisticExpecting positive results
- eagerIntensely wanting something
- planningArranging for future events
prospective · confident · enthusiastic · excited · preparing · ready · wishful thinking
overconfident
Excessively sure of oneself
- prematureOccurring before expected
- audaciousRecklessly or disrespectfully fearless
- boldCourageous and daring
entitled · assuming · forward · ambitious · cocky · brash · pushy · impertinent · hasty · jumping the gun
expectant
Awaiting something foreseen
- hopefulFeeling positive expectation
- optimisticExpecting positive results
- eagerIntensely wanting something
planning · prospective · confident · enthusiastic · excited · preparing · ready · wishful thinking
measure the drapeshedge one's bets
Reduce risk by diversifying
hold off · wait and see · hold one's horses · stay humble · play it safe
measure, drapes, measures, measured, measuring, measurement, measurements, measurable, immeasurable