THE IDIOM COLLECTION LEARN & PRACTISE
Jump the gun
Understand the meaning. See it in context. Make it yours.
01 / UNDERSTAND
Meaning in plain English
To start something too early, before the right time.
Usage note: keep in mind
Jump the gun means act before the proper time, often before facts or arrangements are ready. The past form is jumped the gun. It criticises premature action, rather than speed by itself. Doing something quickly at the right time need not qualify.
02 / SEE IT IN CONTEXT
The expression in a sentence
- They jumped the gun by announcing the product before it was ready.
03 / CHECK YOUR UNDERSTANDING
Quick idiom quiz
Try the question without looking back, then write a sentence of your own. You can retry as often as you like.
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Can you recall the expression?
Which expression from this lesson matches this meaning?
To start something too early, before the right time.
Show the answer
Jump the gun — To start something too early, before the right time.
Try your own sentence (optional)
Make it yours
Write one sentence using “Jump the gun” about your own life.
Check your sentence
Does your sentence match this meaning?
To start something too early, before the right time.
Compare: They jumped the gun by announcing the product before it was ready.
Check the spelling and how the expression fits the sentence. Your example can be different.
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More ways to understand and use it
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More examples in context
- We jumped the gun by announcing the event before confirming the venue.
- Don't jump the gun; wait until both teams have approved the dates.
Check your understanding
A manager shares a final schedule before checking staff availability. What makes this jumping the gun?
Check your answer
The announcement is premature because a necessary step is unfinished. The issue is timing and readiness, not merely working quickly.
Use it in your own words
Write one new situation where jump the gun fits. Explain the situation in plain English first, then rewrite it using the expression. Check that the tone and meaning suit your audience.