jump the gun

/dʒˈʌmp ðə ɡˈʌn/

[phrase]

to jump the gun

[PHRASE]

to do something too earlier than its right time

What is the origin of the idiom "jump the gun" and when to use it?

The idiom "jump the gun" has its origin in the sport of horse racing rather than track and field. In horse racing, a starting gun is used to signal the beginning of the race. The phrase "jump the gun" originally referred to a horse that began running before the starting signal was given, resulting in a false start. It is commonly used when someone initiates an action or makes a judgment before the appropriate time, without having all the necessary information or considering the full consequences.

Examples

1. Isn't it jumping the gun to start talking about marriage?

2. They've only just met - isn't it jumping the gun to be talking about marriage already?

3. Some are essentially jumping the gun and starting human trials before animal studies are complete.

4. In fact, a coalition of beekeepers and consumer and environmental groups is currently suing the EPA, saying they jumped the gun on approving these products.