gain on

Definitions

1. 1

   To encroach on.

   • The ocean gains on the land.
2. 2

   To obtain influence with.

   • My gentleness and good behaviour had gained so far on the emperor and his court[…] that I began to conceive hopes of getting my liberty in a short time.
3. 3

   To win ground upon

   To win ground upon; to move faster than, as in a race or contest.

   • Soon, the van lurched into a high gear and started gaining on Zoe, who was running as fast as her little legs would carry her.
4. ›+ 1 more definitionshow fewer

   1. 4

      To get the better of

      To get the better of; to have the advantage of.

      • The English have not only gained upon the Venetians in the Levant, but have their cloth in Venice itself.

The neighborhood