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."
inseparable
get one up on
B2 informal inseparable transitive
To gain a competitive advantage or score a point over a rival.
In plain English
To do something that puts you ahead of someone else, like scoring a point in a game or competition.
What does "get one up on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
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."
inseparable
Usage tip
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.'
Words that pair with "get one up on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
rival competitor colleague always try to sibling opponent
How to conjugate "get one up on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
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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