go one better

Idioms and Phrases

Outdo or surpass someone, as in He went one better than his teacher and came up with five more famous scientists . This expression originated in gambling games, where it meant “to offer a higher stake than one's opponent.” [Mid-1800s]

Example Sentences

Even when losing star pass rusher Aidan Hutchinson they traded for Za'Darius Smith, external, which is a great move that could see them go one better than last year and reach the Super Bowl.

From BBC

The Red Roses, runaway leaders at the top of the world rankings and on a 20-match winning streak, are clear favourites to go one better than they did in New Zealand in 2022.

From BBC

After Scotland gave Australia a scare at the T20 World Cup in June, there was some hope that they could go one better and provide an upset in Edinburgh.

From BBC

"I came here for gold and after winning silver in Tokyo I wanted to go one better, but I just couldn't get over the line," said the 28-year-old.

From BBC

The world, European and Commonwealth champion Dave Ellis will look to finally win Paralympic gold in the men's PTV, while Rio 2016 silver medallist Alison Peasgood will try to go one better in the women's PTV.

From BBC

Related Words

• beat
• dominate
• eclipse
• excel
• outdistance
• outdo
• outmatch
• outpace
• outperform
• outplay
• outrun
• outshine