Phrase guide

pull ahead

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 move into a winning position (e.g. in a race or competition).

Definition source: English Wiktionary via Wiktextract

Usage: idiomatic, intransitive

Examples

  • After being neck-and-neck the whole race, Gibbs managed to pull ahead in the final lap.

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: none provided

Antonyms: none provided

2

verb

Meaning 2

obtain advantages, such as points, etc.

Definition source: Princeton WordNet 3.0

Examples

  • The home team was gaining ground
  • After defeating the Knicks, the Blazers pulled ahead of the Lakers in the battle for the number-one playoff berth in the Western Conference

Meaning relationships

Synonyms: gain, advance, win, make headway, get ahead, gain ground

Antonyms: none provided

Narrower terms: steal, score, hit, tally, rack up

History

Etymology

No etymology was provided for this word.