phrases, sayings, idioms and expressions at

The Phrase Finder

The meaning and origin of the expression: Steal a march

Phrases, Sayings and Idioms Home > Phrase Dictionary - Meanings and Origins > Steal a march


Browse phrases beginning with: [A][B][C][D][E][F][G][H][I][J][K][L][M][N][O][P][Q][R][S][T][U,V][W][X,Y,Z]

Steal a march

Meaning

Gain an advantage over an opponent.

Origin

This phrase derives from the military manoeuvre of moving troops secretly, in order to gain an advantage. It has been used since at least the early 18th century, when it was cited in the London Gazette, 1716:

"We saw him... steal a March for our Preservation."
Copyright © Gary Martin, 1996 - 2012