jockey for position

Register · Neutral Neutral — appropriate in most situations, both spoken and written, without sounding too casual or too stiff. CEFR C1

Post

Figurative meaning

to maneuver competitively in order to gain the most advantageous position

Word picture

Competitors are pictured as riders maneuvering to secure the best place in a race.

Example

“Several firms are jockeying for position before the government awards the contract.”

Dictionary details

Component words

jockey position

Tags

Expressions connected by reviewed component words or topic tags.

ahead of the game Neutral · CEFR B2

to stay better prepared than others by anticipating future needs

blaze a trail Neutral · CEFR B2

to pioneer an approach that opens the way for later people

breathe down someone's neck Neutral · CEFR B2

to monitor someone so closely that they feel pressured or uncomfortable

cut the mustard Neutral · CEFR B2

to perform well enough for a particular need or expectation

deliver the goods Informal · CEFR B2

to do what is expected or promised; to produce good results

fall into place Informal · CEFR B2

to become clear or to work out well after a period of confusion

Source methodology

Meanings, register, CEFR, and examples come from the reviewed dictionary record. Expression notes may describe a reviewed present-day word picture or a background note; they are not presented as verified etymology.

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