aheadoftheplay

adverb

UK /əˈhɛd əv ðə pleɪ/

US /əˈhɛd əv ðə pleɪ/

Being ahead of the play means you are doing something before it happens.

She was ahead of the play and had her umbrella ready before the rain started.

SYNONYMS

early prepared forward-thinking ahead of the game proactive

RELATED WORDS

anticipate foresight initiative preparedness

OTHER MEANINGS

2. In sports, being in a position further forward than where the action is happening.

The striker was ahead of the play and scored an easy goal.

3. Knowing what will happen before other people do.

The clever trader was ahead of the play and sold before prices fell.

4. Acting sooner than expected or required.

Thanks to being ahead of the play, the team finished the project early.