# get ahead of

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/get-ahead-of
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to make more progress than others or to deal with a problem before it happens.

For teachers: to surpass others in progress or achievement; alternatively, to act proactively to manage a situation before it becomes problematic.

## Examples

- She works hard to get ahead of her classmates.
- The company released a statement early to get ahead of the negative rumors.
- By investing in renewable energy now, the firm hopes to get ahead of the upcoming environmental regulations and secure a market lead.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He got ahead his work." but "He got ahead of his work." — the preposition 'of' is essential to connect the verb phrase to the object.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by a person, a competitor, or a potential problem.
- Teaching tip: highlight the two nuances: the competitive sense (beating others) and the proactive sense (preventing trouble); 'get ahead of the curve' is a common related idiom.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.