get one up on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
In simple words
To do something that puts you ahead of someone else, like scoring a point in a game or competition.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
informal
To gain a competitive lead or score a point over someone in a rivalry.
"The two companies are constantly trying to get one up on each other with new product launches."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To make someone else look inferior or less successful, especially in a social situation.
"He always has to get one up on me in front of the boss — it's exhausting."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Common in competitive or playful situations. Sometimes implies a petty or ongoing rivalry. Often used in the phrase 'trying to get one up on each other.'
Commonly used with
rival competitor colleague always try to sibling opponent
Forms
Base
get one up on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gets one up on
he/she/it
Past simple
got one up on
yesterday
Past participle
got/gotten one up on
have + pp
-ing form
getting one up on
continuous
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Synonyms
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