ENGLISH
REFERENCE

pip to the post

idiom
Meaning

To overcome a strong competitor in a sporting event, especially by gaining a small advantage at the last decisive moment.


Examples
SIMPLE

She pipped him to the post in the final race.

CONTEXTUAL

Our team led for most of the game, but the opponents pipped us to the post in the final seconds.

COMPLEX

Despite his consistent performance throughout the tournament, the underdog was pipped to the post by a last-minute surge from the defending champion.

Anchors to
Related idioms6entries
  1. 01

    be left at the post

    To be beaten from the beginning of a competition or race.

  2. 02

    dumb as a post

    Utterly mute; lacking the ability to speak.

  3. 03

    far post

    The goalpost furthest from where a cross is made.

  4. 04

    from pillar to post

    From one place, place, or thing to another, hither and thither.

  5. 05

    knight of the post

    A known perjurer; a professional false witness.

  6. 06

    near post

    The goalpost nearest from which a cross is made.

© 2026 English Reference