Steal a march

Origins of the Phrase “Steal a March”

The idiom “steal a march” is a fascinating phrase that has its roots in military strategy and has evolved over time to encompass broader meanings in everyday language. This expression is often used to describe the act of gaining an advantage over someone, particularly by acting in a clever or sneaky manner. To fully appreciate the depth of this phrase, we must delve into its historical context, etymology, and how its usage has transformed through the ages.

Historical Context

The phrase “steal a march” can be traced back to the 17th century, with its earliest recorded use appearing in the works of English playwright and poet John Milton. In his 1671 poem “Paradise Regained,” Milton writes, “And now the sun was set, and the night came on, and the stars began to appear, and the moon was in her full, and the night was still, and the air was calm, and the sea was smooth, and the winds were hushed, and the waves were still, and the ships were at anchor, and the men were at rest, and the world was at peace.” While this excerpt does not directly reference the phrase, it reflects the era’s military connotations, where the term would soon find its place.

The phrase itself is believed to have originated from the military practice of marching. In a military context, to “steal a march” meant to advance or move troops secretly or unexpectedly, often to gain a tactical advantage over an enemy. This could involve moving troops at night or taking a route that would allow them to surprise their opponents. The idea was to “steal” a march, or a head start, before the enemy could react.

Etymology and Evolution

The etymology of “steal a march” can be broken down into two components: “steal” and “march.” The word “steal” has Old English origins, derived from the word “stelan,” which means to take something unlawfully. The term “march,” on the other hand, comes from the Latin “mārs,” meaning to walk or to advance. Together, these words create a vivid image of taking an advance position through cunning or stealth.

As the phrase gained popularity, it began to be used in a more figurative sense, extending beyond military applications. By the 18th century, “steal a march” was commonly used in literature and conversation to describe any situation where someone gained an advantage over another through cleverness or deceit. This shift in meaning reflects the broader human experience of competition and strategy, whether in business, politics, or personal relationships.

Modern Usage