jump the gun
phrase
1
: to start in a race before the starting signal
2
: to act, move, or begin something before the proper time
Cite this Entry
“Jump the gun.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/jump%20the%20gun. Accessed 18 Dec. 2025.
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Merriam-Webster unabridged
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