One step ahead Meaning in English

expression

US

ˈwən/ /ˈstɛp/ /əˈhɛd

WUN STEP uh-HED

UK

wˈɒn/ /stˈɛp/ /ɐhˈɛd

WON STEP uh-HED

Definition

Being better prepared or more advanced than others, especially by anticipating what will happen next.

Usage & Nuances

Common in both formal and informal contexts, often used to describe people, businesses, or teams. Implies advantage due to planning, insight, or quick action. Frequently paired with verbs like 'stay', 'keep', or 'be'. Don't confuse with 'ahead of time' (early).

• Spanish: un paso adelante - un paso por delante
• Portuguese (BR): um passo à frente
• Portuguese (PT): um passo à frente
• Chinese (Simplified): 领先一步
• Chinese (Traditional): 領先一步
• Hindi: एक कदम आगे
• Arabic: خُطوة واحدة للأمام - متقدم بخطوة
• Bengali: এক কদম এগিয়ে - এক ধাপ এগিয়ে
• Russian: на шаг впереди
• Japanese: 一歩先を行く
• Vietnamese: một bước trước - đi trước một bước
• Korean: 한 발 앞서다 - 한 걸음 앞서다
• Turkish: bir adım önde
• Urdu: ایک قدم آگے
• Indonesian: selangkah lebih maju

Example Sentences

She always tries to stay one step ahead of her competitors.

basic

Good planning keeps you one step ahead in business.

basic

He was one step ahead and brought an umbrella before it rained.

basic

If you want to win in this industry, you have to be one step ahead at all times.

natural

Thanks to her quick thinking, we were one step ahead of the problem.

natural

They’re always one step ahead—I can never surprise them!

natural