get ahead in the queue

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "get ahead in the queue" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when discussing the act of moving forward in a line or waiting list, often implying a desire to be served or attended to before others. Example: "If you arrive early, you might be able to get ahead in the queue for the concert tickets."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

We were rammed by a white van which was trying to get ahead in the queue and were given no information on the departures or available places.

BBC

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

What has made this issue particularly toxic to Labour and social democrats across Europe was that their stance on multiculturalism and immigration was seen as contradicting their traditional unique selling point as the party of fairness when there were reports of immigrants getting ahead in the queue for housing and benefits.

The Guardian - Opinion

Are African Workers Getting Ahead in the New South Africa?

Cornell University

Get ahead in school.

WikiHow

It is they who go ahead in the queue.

Independent

My sons get ahead of me in the queue for the six-seater chairlift, and I am obliged to share the one behind with an English man and his two teenage daughters.

The Guardian - Travel

He got ahead in counts.

The New York Times - Sports

Residents in Leytonstone have complained that, following the completion of the road, their streets became rat runs for commuters trying to get ahead of queues.

Wikipedia

To help you get ahead of the game, here are four worth queueing for.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Playing the opening game gives Compton the opportunity to put a score on the board and stake his claim, but if he misses out and Root gets runs in the next one then he jumps ahead in the queue.

BBC

Can you get me in the queue to get one?' 'I'm pretty sure.

The Guardian - Music

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "get ahead in the queue" when you want to convey the idea of progressing faster than others in a waiting line or list.

Common error

Avoid using "get ahead in the queue" in situations where there is no actual queue or waiting list. It should refer to a tangible or understood sequential order.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "get ahead in the queue" functions as a verb phrase indicating the action of surpassing others in a waiting line. Ludwig suggests it's a correct and usable English phrase, referring to making progress faster than others in a sequence.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

20%

Science

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Academia

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "get ahead in the queue" is a common and grammatically correct English expression that describes the act of moving forward faster than others in a waiting line or list. Ludwig AI confirms its usability and provides examples across various contexts, from literal queues to metaphorical prioritizations. While it can be used in neutral contexts, ethical considerations and the potential for unfairness should be kept in mind. Related phrases include "jump the line" and "cut in line". When writing, it's essential to ensure a queue or sequential order exists to maintain contextual accuracy.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

jump the line

This alternative uses different vocabulary but maintains the same core meaning of bypassing others in a queue.

cut in line

Implies interrupting the existing order, potentially with negative connotations.

move up the queue

Focuses on advancement within the queue, rather than surpassing others.

advance in the queue

Similar to 'move up', but with a slightly more formal tone.

gain precedence

Emphasizes the act of obtaining a higher priority or position.

bypass the queue

Suggests avoiding the queue altogether.

overtake in the queue

Uses a more literal term for passing others in a line.

leapfrog the queue

Emphasizes a sudden jump ahead, often unexpectedly.

secure an earlier spot

Shifts the focus to obtaining a better position, rather than the act of surpassing.

obtain priority access

Focuses on getting special treatment that allows one to skip the normal waiting process.

FAQs

How can I use "get ahead in the queue" in a sentence?

You can use "get ahead in the queue" to describe the act of progressing faster than others in a waiting line, such as "By arriving early, you can "get ahead in the queue" for tickets".

What does "get ahead in the queue" mean?

"Get ahead in the queue" means to move forward or make progress faster than others who are waiting in a line or sequence for something.

What can I say instead of "get ahead in the queue"?

You can use alternatives like "jump the line", "cut in line", or "move up the queue" depending on the context.

Is it acceptable to "get ahead in the queue"?

Whether it's acceptable to "get ahead in the queue" often depends on the situation. Doing so without permission or justification is generally considered unfair, but in some cases, priority may be given to certain individuals due to specific needs or circumstances.