get the better of

phrase

: to defeat or trick (someone) by being clever

It would be hard to get the better of someone as experienced as she is.

—often used figuratively

She knew she shouldn't open the package, but her curiosity finally got the better of her and she opened it.

Examples of get the better of in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Wilson reveled in the matchup, though, even when Brooks was getting the better of him. — Julia Poe, Chicago Tribune, 8 Oct. 2026

If the nightlife hasn’t got the better of you, rise early to claim the four-poster wooden daybed at ground level and order sushi from Seltz Champagne Bar. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 6 Oct. 2026

As for Sheriff Kerry, her fear got the better of her at the worst possible time. — Ben Travers, IndieWire, 4 Oct. 2026

The announcements said something about wrestling, and my curiosity got the better of me. — Judith Martin, Sun Sentinel, 18 Sep. 2026

Rhymes for get the better of

• above
• foxglove
• hereof
• thereof
• whereof
• dove
• glove
• love
• shove
• hereinabove