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Difficulty: MediumIdioms and Idiomatic Expressions

Complete the sentence below by providing the missing word that forms the correct idiomatic expression.

Answer:To gain a competitive edge over their main rivals before the product launch, the tech startup managed to steal a 【march】 on them by releasing their software two weeks ahead of schedule.

Answer

march
The idiomatic expression 'to steal a march on' means to gain a secret or unexpected advantage over a competitor, especially by taking action before they are prepared. In the sentence context, launching product software early to outmaneuver rivals requires the noun 'march'.

Step-by-Step Solution

1
Analyze the context and surrounding words of the incomplete idiomatic phrase
The sentence presents a scenario where a company acts ahead of schedule to gain an advantage over competitors, surrounding the structure 'steal a _____ on'.
Contextual indicators such as 'gain a competitive edge' and 'releasing software two weeks ahead of schedule' signify anticipating or outmaneuvering an opponent.
2
Identify the standard noun that completes the fixed idiomatic expression
The noun 'march' completes the idiomatic phrase 'steal a march on'.
Originating from military tactics regarding surprise troop movements, 'to steal a march on' is an established English idiom meaning to gain an unexpected or secret advantage over someone.

Key Concept

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions
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Topics

Idioms and Idiomatic Expressions

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