# jump at

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/jump-at
Updated: 2026-10-22

## Definition

to accept an opportunity or offer very quickly because you are excited about it.

For teachers: to accept an opportunity or offer with immediate enthusiasm. The verb is transitive and requires an object, typically an abstract noun denoting a possibility.

## Examples

- I would jump at the chance to work in Paris.
- When the manager offered him a promotion with a higher salary, he jumped at the offer immediately.
- Despite the inherent risks of the venture, several venture capitalists jumped at the prospect of funding a project with such high potential returns.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He jumped at to go to the party." but "He jumped at the chance to go to the party." — the phrase requires a noun object like 'chance' or 'opportunity' before the infinitive verb.

## Usage notes

- usually followed by nouns like 'chance', 'opportunity', or 'offer'.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'jump to conclusions' to prevent preposition confusion; 'jump at' is about eagerness for an offer.

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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.