beat someone to it

beat (one) to (something)

1. To do or obtain something before one. I was going to suggest that idea to the boss today, but unfortunately one of my co-workers beat me to it. Tim's older cousins usually beat him to the best parts of the turkey, but this year he got first pick.
2. To reach a destination before one. They beat us to the restaurant, so they're going to get a table. If you run your fastest, no one will be able to beat you to the finish line.
See also: beat

beat (one) to it

To do or obtain something before one. I was going to suggest that idea to the boss today, but unfortunately one of my co-workers beat me to it. Tim wanted the last turkey leg, but his brother beat him to it.
See also: beat
Farlex Dictionary of Idioms.

beat someone to it

succeed in doing something or getting somewhere before someone else, to their annoyance.
See also: beat, someone
Farlex Partner Idioms Dictionary
See also:
  • give (one) (one's) head
  • give head
  • give somebody their head
  • give someone their head
  • (one) could use (something)
  • drive (one) out of office
  • force (one) out of office
  • force out of office
  • give somebody ideas
  • give (one) ideas