Select the most appropriate meaning of the given idiom.

Jump the gun

To do something too soon

The most appropriate meaning of the idiom "jump the gun" is to do something too soon.

It is used to describe the act of taking action before it is necessary or appropriate. The idiom is thought to have originated from the idea of a shooter who fires their gun before the starting signal is given.

For example, you might say "I jumped the gun and told my boss I could finish the project by the end of the week, but I don't think I'm going to be able to make it." This means that you made a commitment to do something before you were sure that you could do it.

The other options are not accurate descriptions of the meaning of the idiom.

• To waste your money: This idiom is more accurately described as "to spend money unwisely."
• To do something stupid: This idiom is more accurately described as "to do something foolish or reckless."
• To defeat an opponent: This idiom is not related to the idiom "jump the gun."