Jump the queue

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Meaning

To skip ahead unfairly, cutting in line.

Origin

From 20th-century Britain, tied to 'queue'; line-standing strict since 1830s, slang by 1910s for cuts. A 1917 'Times' uses it for a war ration skip.

Usage Examples

  • He jumped the queue and grabbed the last ticket.
  • Don't jump the queue; wait like us!
  • She jumped the queue for the sale items.

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