jump the gun — to do something too soon, especially before the proper or right time
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: to do something too soon, especially before the proper or right time
Pronunciation (IPA): /dʒʌmp ðə ɡʌn/
Example Sentences
- He jumped the gun and proposed on the second date - she wasn't ready for that!
- The company jumped the gun by announcing the product before testing was complete.
- I think you're jumping the gun - let's wait for more information before making a decision.
jump the gun
NOUN[/dʒʌmp ðə ɡʌn/]
to do something too soon, especially before the proper or right time
He tried to jump the gun and started running before the whistle blew.
Don't jump the gun before you run under the sun!
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
This phrase originated in track and field athletics, referring to runners who start before the starting gun fires. Emerging in the 1940s, it expanded from a literal sports rule violation to a figurative expression meaning premature or hasty action in general contexts.
Breakdown
jump (to leap or move quickly) + the (definite article) + gun (starting pistol used in races). The 'gun' metonymically represents the official signal to begin, so jumping before it sounds means acting prematurely.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“He jumped the gun and proposed on the second date - she wasn't ready for that!”
“The company jumped the gun by announcing the product before testing was complete.”
“I think you're jumping the gun - let's wait for more information before making a decision.”
“She jumped the gun and bought a wedding dress after the first kiss!”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
Antonyms
Related
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