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Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

Select the option that best expresses the meaning of the underlined idiomatic expression in the sentence below:

By launching its new renewable energy product six months ahead of schedule, the tech startup managed to steal a march on its main competitors.

Which of the following best interprets the underlined expression?

  1. gain an advantage over their rivals by taking action before themAnswer
  2. B
    physically trespass on the private premises of their business rivals
  3. C
    illegally copy and sell the patented technology of their competitors
  4. D
    concede market dominance and surrender control to rival companies

Answer

The expression 'steal a march on' means to gain a secret or unexpected advantage over someone, especially by acting before they do.
The idiom 'steal a march on' means to gain a surprise or prompt advantage over a rival by acting before they are prepared or aware. In the sentence context, launching six months early allowed the startup to gain this early competitive edge.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context of the sentence
The startup launched its product six months ahead of schedule, placing itself ahead of rivals.
Context clues such as 'ahead of schedule' indicate a proactive advantage gained over competitors.
2
Determine the figurative meaning of the idiom
To 'steal a march on someone' is a established idiomatic phrase originating from military maneuvers where an army moved silently to gain a tactical position before the enemy noticed.
Idioms cannot be interpreted literally by breaking down individual words like 'steal' or 'march'.
3
Match the figurative definition with the choices
The option stating 'gain an advantage over their rivals by taking action before them' precisely matches the figurative meaning.
It accurately reflects both the timing and competitive advantage implied by the context.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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