expression

jump the gun

to act too soon

In more detail

(idiom) to start something before the proper or planned time; to do something too soon or prematurely without waiting for the right moment

Examples

Don't jump the gun—wait until we have all the information before making a decision.

How to use jump the gun

This idiom is used to criticize or warn against starting something before the appropriate time or before all necessary conditions are met. It carries a slightly informal tone and is commonly used in both spoken and written English when discussing project timelines, announcements, decisions, or reactions. It often implies a lack of patience or premature action that may have negative consequences.

Common phrases

jump the gun on
don't jump the gun
jumping the gun
accused of jumping the gun

Synonyms

act prematurely · go ahead of schedule · move too quickly · rush ahead · begin too soon

Opposites

wait · hold back · delay

A common mistake

Learners sometimes use 'jump the gun' with an object (e.g., 'jump the gun a project') instead of the proper form 'jump the gun on something' or just 'jump the gun' as a standalone phrase.

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