streets ahead: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘streets ahead’ mean?
The idiom "streets ahead" means to be significantly more advanced or superior to something or someone else. It is often used to describe a person or thing that is far ahead in terms of skills, abilities, or performance.
Idiom Explorer
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Uncovering the Significance of *Streets Ahead*
The idiom "streets ahead" is primarily used in British English and means to be more advanced, skillful, or better than someone or something else.
The origin of this idiom is uncertain, but it is believed to have emerged in Britain in the mid-20th century and gained popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. It became associated with expressing strong praise or commendation and is now widely understood internationally. Despite the lack of specific information on its etymology, "streets ahead" remains a commonly used and recognized phrase.
The idiom is typically used in informal conversations or casual writing, such as in newspapers, magazines, and online articles. It is less commonly used in formal or academic contexts. While it is more frequently used in British English, similar expressions like "miles ahead" or "light years ahead" may be used in American English.
It is important to note that "streets ahead" is an example of idiomatic language. Its meaning is not derived from the literal interpretation of its individual words. Instead, it relies on cultural and linguistic context to be correctly understood.
The phrase "streets ahead" conveys a sense of admiration for someone or something that is exemplary and surpasses others in a given area. It emphasizes the idea of being significantly more advanced, skillful, or successful.
An related idiom, "ahead of the curve," can be used to describe someone or something that is even more advanced or ahead of its time. This idiom suggests that the person or thing is at the forefront of innovation or trends, setting the standard for others to follow. In comparison to "streets ahead," "ahead of the curve" implies an even greater level of superiority and innovation.
Another related idiom, "streets behind," is the opposite of "streets ahead." It refers to someone or something that is significantly lagging behind or less advanced than others. This phrase conveys a sense of being outdated or inferior.
"ahead of the game" is yet another idiom that is related to "streets ahead." It signifies being more prepared or having an advantage over others in a competitive situation. This expression often refers to someone who is strategically positioned to succeed or win in a particular context.
The idiom "one step ahead" can also be associated with "streets ahead." It describes someone who is always prepared or anticipating what is coming next. This phrase conveys a sense of being proactive and staying ahead of any challenges or obstacles.
The last related idiom is "ahead of the pack." This expression is used to describe someone or something that is leading or excelling among a group of competitors. It emphasizes being at the front or in a superior position compared to others.
"streets ahead" is a widely used idiom in British English that conveys a sense of being more advanced, skillful, or better than others. Its origin is uncertain, but it has gained popularity and recognition over time. It is important to understand that this phrase, like many idioms, has a figurative meaning that is not derived from its literal interpretation. Related idioms include "ahead of the curve," "streets behind," "ahead of the game," "one step ahead," and "ahead of the pack," each with its own nuances and implications.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom "streets ahead" can be used in a sentence:
1. She is streets ahead of her classmates in terms of academic achievement.
2. The new smartphone is streets ahead of the previous model in terms of performance and features.
3. Our company's marketing strategy is streets ahead of our competitors, giving us a significant edge in the market.
More "Comparison" idioms
