jump at meaning and examples

2025-09-20

Meaning

"Jump at" is a phrasal verb meaning to accept an opportunity, offer, or suggestion eagerly and without hesitation.

Part of speech: phrasal verb (verb + particle).
Transitivity: typically transitive — followed by a noun or noun phrase (object).
Typical pattern: jump at + (the) + noun (e.g., jump at the chance/opportunity/idea).
Usage notes:
- Often used to show positive eagerness: He jumped at the chance to travel.
- Can be followed by a clause when the noun is implied: I would have jumped at it.
- Register: neutral to informal; common in spoken and written English.
Variations with particles/prepositions: the meaning changes with context — here "at" conveys immediate enthusiastic acceptance; do not confuse with physical meanings of "jump" (e.g., jump at someone meaning to attack or react suddenly).

verb + noun: jump at + chance / opportunity / offer / suggestion / idea
adjective modifiers: eagerly jump at, readily jump at, immediately jump at
typical verbs used in similar contexts: grab, seize, accept

When she heard about the promotion, she jumped at the chance to apply.
I would jump at any opportunity to work abroad.
He jumped at the idea of starting his own business.
They jumped at the offer of free tickets to the concert.
When presented with a new project, our team jumped at the opportunity to lead it.
She didn't hesitate — she jumped at the chance and signed the contract the same day.
If someone offers you that role, I'd jump at it.