Phrase guide

get the drop on

verb · 2 senses · updated from the 2026-07-25 local source snapshot

Definitions and examples are grouped by meaning. Pronunciation, history, word forms, translations, descendants, synonyms, antonyms, derived terms, and related words appear whenever the source provides them.

Sound

Pronunciation

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1

verb

Meaning 1

To point one's firearm at another person, thereby gaining dominance in a situation.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: informal, transitive

Examples

  • He got the drop on them and proceeded to shoot and kill them before they could fire a shot or respond.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

To obtain an advantage over another person, by acting before that person.

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: broadly, informal, transitive

Examples

  • We’re always getting the drop on our competitors because the owner really knows the business and can act fast.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: beat to the punch, get the jump on

Antonyms: none provided

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.