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leap at

B1 neutral inseparable transitive
In simple words

To say yes to something really quickly because you're very excited about it.

Literal meaning: To physically jump at something or someone.

Meanings

1 B1 idiomatic neutral

To accept an opportunity, offer, or suggestion with great enthusiasm and without hesitation.

"She leaped at the chance to study abroad when her professor offered her a scholarship."

"He leapt at the opportunity to work with one of the greatest directors of his generation."

— The Guardian, film interview, 2015
Grammar: inseparable
2 A2 neutral

To physically jump toward or lunge at someone or something.

"The dog leaped at the ball the moment it was thrown."

Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes

Almost always used with 'chance', 'opportunity', or 'offer'. The phrase conveys enthusiasm and willingness. Very common in spoken and informal written English.

Commonly used with

chance opportunity offer invitation idea proposal

Forms

Base
leap at
I/you/we/they
3rd person
leaps at
he/she/it
Past simple
leaped at
yesterday
Past participle
leaped at
have + pp
-ing form
leaping at
continuous

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Synonyms

jump at grab seize snap up welcome eagerly accept enthusiastically

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