Translation guide
How to express the idea of someone or something gaining an advantage, overcoming, or defeating someone, often in a contest, argument, or struggle. Also covers being overwhelmed by an emotion or impulse.
To gain an advantage over someone in a competition, argument, or conflict; to win against someone.
Literally 'strike and defeat'. A strong, direct verb for defeating an opponent in a fight, game, or contest.
He got the better of his rival.
Means 'to surpass' or 'to be superior to'. Often used when one person or thing is better than another in quality or ability.
He got the better of his opponent in the argument.
Means 'to outwit' or 'to outmaneuver'. Implies using cleverness or strategy to get ahead of someone.
He got the better of his competitors.
A casual verb meaning 'to defeat' or 'to beat'. Common in sports and games.
He got the better of me in tennis.
When a feeling or desire becomes too strong to control, causing someone to act against their better judgment.
Literally 'to lose'. Used with emotions to mean 'to give in to' or 'to be overcome by'. Very common and natural.
He let temptation get the better of him.
I let anger get the better of me and said things I shouldn't have.
Means 'to yield' or 'to succumb'. More formal than 負ける, often used in writing.
Literally 'to be swallowed up'. Used when someone is overwhelmed by a situation or emotion, losing composure.
To come out ahead in a deal, negotiation, or tricky situation.
An idiomatic phrase meaning 'to get the upper hand' or 'to gain an advantage'. Used in negotiations or conflicts.
He got the better of the other party in the negotiation.
Literally 'one step ahead'. Describes being slightly better or more skilled, often used in competitive contexts.
彼は恐怖に屈しなかった。
He didn't let fear get the better of him.
彼は緊張に飲まれてしまった。
He let nervousness get the better of him.
He always gets the better of me.